O-I Glass has announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Gordon J. Hardie, current O-I Board member, as the Company’s next Chief Executive Officer, effective the later of May 15, 2024 or the date Gordon is issued his work-authorized U.S. visa. Gordon will also continue as a member of O-I’s Board, where he has served since 2015. He succeeds Andres Lopez, who previously announced his intention to retire.
“Gordon’s appointment as CEO follows a comprehensive search consistent with our long-term succession planning process,” said John H. Walker, Independent Board Chair. “Gordon is a proven leader with extensive experience in the packaged food and beverage industry, bringing valuable customer perspective. Having served on the O-I Board for nearly nine years, he also has a deep understanding of our business, operations and culture – and most importantly, the opportunities ahead. The Board is confident that Gordon will take the Company into its next phase of innovation and growth.”
“I am honoured to take on the role of O-I’s next CEO at this exciting time in the Company’s history,” said Gordon. “I know first-hand that our culture of innovation and the tremendous talent at every level of the organization is what differentiates O-I as an industry leader. Together, with the rest of the Board and O-I management team, I look forward to building on our strong foundation and delivering future value creation for our customers and stockholders.”
“I have worked closely with Gordon from our time together on the O-I Board, and I believe he is the ideal leader to take O-I to the next level,” said Andres Lopez. “I am extremely proud of what the O-I team has accomplished, from developing breakthrough innovations to advancing new standards in sustainable glass manufacturing and will be celebrating the team’s continued successes for years to come.”
Changes to the Board
O-I also announced the nominations of Eric J. Foss and Cheri Phyfer to stand for election to the Company’s Board at its 2024 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 15, 2024.
In addition, the Company announced that John H. Walker is retiring from his role as Independent Board Chair and a member of the Board, effective as of the Annual Meeting. The Board will appoint a new Board Chair at the conclusion of the Annual Meeting.