Central Garden & Pet names new president, CEO

Central Garden & Pet has announced that John Ranelli has been named president and CEO, effective at the company's annual shareholder meeting on Feb. 11, 2013. Ranelli has been a member of the board of directors of Central Garden & Pet and a member of the board's audit committee since 2010. He will remain on Central's Board.

Bill Brown, Central's chairman and CEO, will continue as chairman. 

Central Garden & Pet has announced that John Ranelli has been named president and CEO, effective at the company's annual shareholder meeting on Feb. 11, 2013. Ranelli has been a member of the board of directors of Central Garden & Pet and a member of the board's audit committee since 2010. He will remain on Central's Board.

Bill Brown, Central's chairman and CEO, will continue as chairman. 

"Over the last two years, John has become a leader on our board and a trusted partner," Brown said. "His close to 40 years of experience in building consumer products companies will be invaluable as we position Central for the next phase of growth and continue our transition to an integrated branded consumer products company."

Ranelli has served as CEO of Mikasa Inc., a global dinnerware, crystal and home accessories company; of FGX International (FosterGrant), a global optical company; and, most recently, of Woolrich Inc., an outdoor clothing company. He has served as an adviser to companies and private equity firms since leaving Mikasa Inc. when it was sold in 2008. Previously, he served in senior executive capacities with The Timberland Co., Stride Rite, Deckers Outdoor and TLC Beatrice. He has served on the boards of GNC, Deckers Outdoor Corp, Party City and Woolrich. Ranelli will continue to serve on the Woolrich board as non-executive chairman.