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Keurig Dr Pepper announced changes as part of the continued evolution of its Board of Directors. The Company shared the appointments of two accomplished executives – Mike Van de Ven and Lawson Whiting – as directors. The Company also announced that Bob Gamgort's role has progressed from Executive Chairman to non-executive Chairman of the Board. These moves are effective as of April 24, 2025.
"We are thrilled to welcome Mike Van de Ven and Lawson Whiting as we further strengthen our Board of Directors with two new independent directors," said KDP Chairman Bob Gamgort. "With a remarkable background leading Southwest Airline's operations, Mike brings extensive business management experience and deep financial acumen. As the current CEO of Brown-Forman Corporation, Lawson brings a highly relevant perspective, and we'll benefit from his expertise building and leading iconic brands. We look forward to Mike and Lawson's partnership on our Board."
Gamgort said: "KDP has gone from a closely held company at its formation to the widely held company we are today. As we advance KDP's next chapter, we have been purposeful in creating a Board with a formidable and complementary range of backgrounds, perspectives, skills and experiences. Similarly, a year ago we had a successful CEO leadership transition, with Tim Cofer now at the helm and capably leading KDP. In keeping with this evolution, I'm pleased to move into the role of non-executive Chairman."
Mike Van de Ven has dedicated 32 years to various financial, operational and executive leadership roles at Southwest Airlines. He currently serves as an Executive Advisor at the company, primarily focusing on aircraft innovations. Previously, he served as President of Southwest from September 2021 to December 2022, and Chief Operating Officer from May 2008 to September 2022. He joined Southwest in 1993 and has held various positions and responsibilities for the airline, including internal audit, financial planning and analysis, fleet planning, aircraft operations and schedule planning. Mr. Van de Ven has also served as senior audit manager for Ernst & Young LLP and is a licensed Certified Public Accountant. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from the University of Texas.
Lawson Whiting has been at Brown-Forman Corporation, a global alcoholic beverage company, for more than 25 years, developing some of the industry's brands. He has been the President and Chief Executive Officer of Brown-Forman since January 2019 and serves on the Board of Directors. Prior to becoming CEO, Lawson held the position of Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, overseeing regional operations, global production and corporate responsibility. Earlier, as Senior Vice President and Chief Brands and Strategy Officer, he was responsible for the global growth and development of the Brown-Forman portfolio of brands. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Miami University and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business.
