TORRANCE, Calif., U.S. – Farmer Bros. Co. announced yesterday the appointment of Isaac N. Johnston, Jr. as Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, effective October 1, 2015. Mr. Johnston brings to the Company a wealth of experience in the areas of finance, productivity, operations, supply chain, IT, procurement and sales operations.
Mr. Johnston served as the Executive Vice President, CFO of Operations and Chief Transformation Officer at United Surgical Partners International, Inc., where he was instrumental in transforming the supply chain structure to a more cost competitive model.
For over 25 years, Mr. Johnston served at PepsiCo, a leading global food and beverage company in several senior leadership roles, including as Senior Vice President of Company Wide Productivity and Advanced Research Commercialization at Frito-Lay North America, Senior Vice President of Procurement at PepsiCo, Senior Vice President Finance at Frito-Lay North America, and Chief Financial Officer of Frito-Lay Canada.
Mr. Johnston graduated with a B.S. degree in Accounting from Oklahoma State University and was a certified public accountant in the State of Texas.
“Isaac brings an impressive depth of experience and track record of leadership success driving business critical initiatives within the food and beverage industry,” said Mike Keown, CEO and President of Farmer Bros. Co.
“With Isaac leading our finance organization, I believe we will be well-positioned to meet our growth goals as we transition to this next phase in the Company’s history.”
The Company’s current Treasurer and CFO, Mark J. Nelson, will step down from the position due to family considerations relating to the Company’s headquarters relocation to Northlake, Texas. Mr. Nelson will remain with the Company for a period of time to assist with the transition process.
“During Mark’s tenure, he provided exceptional leadership throughout the organization,” said Mr. Keown.
“He played a critical role in successfully executing our turn-around strategy, strengthening the Company’s finance and accounting functions, and ultimately helping drive the Company’s return to profitability.
In addition, he was an integral team member in developing our corporate relocation plan and assisting in its execution to date. We wish him continued success in his future endeavors,” Mr. Keown added.
