ORRVILLE, OHIO — The J.M. Smucker Co. has announced several changes to its leadership team, including the retirement of a top executive.

Barry Dunaway, Smucker
Barry C. Dunaway

Barry C. Dunaway, president, International and chief administrative officer, will assume the role of president, Big Heart Pet Food and Snacks, effective March 1, 2016. Mr. Dunaway has held a variety of management roles during his 28 years with the company, with current responsibility over Smucker’s merger and acquisition strategy and significant involvement with the acquisition and integration of Big Heart Pet Brands.

David West, Smucker
David J. West

Mr. Dunaway will succeed David J. West, who will become strategic advisor to the executive committee. Mr. West has held his current position since joining the company in March and will work with Mr. Dunaway to transition responsibilities beginning Jan. 1, 2016. At the end of his employment agreement on April 30, 2016, Mr. West will remain a member of the company’s board of directors.

Mark Belgya, Smucker
Mark R. Belgya

Mark R. Belgya, senior vice-president and chief financial officer, will have expanded responsibilities, including the company’s Government and Industry Affairs, Information Services, and Corporate Strategy departments. During his 30 years with the company, Mr. Belgya has served in leadership roles within Smucker’s finance organization.

“Continuity of leadership and the ability to capitalize on the deep bench strength of our organization have been important factors behind our company's success and will remain key elements of our plans to support long-term growth," said Richard Smucker, chief executive officer. “We are confident in the proven abilities of our leadership team, along with the talented employees that support them, to continue to strengthen and grow our company.  In addition, we are excited that Dave West will continue serving the company as a director following his decision to transition into the next chapter of his career.”

Mr. Dunaway, Mr. West and Mr. Belgya will continue to report to Mr. Smucker in their new roles.

The company also announced a departure. Vincent C. Byrd, vice-chairman, will retire on June 10, 2016. In his 39 years with the company, Mr. Byrd has served in a number of leadership roles, most recently as president and chief operating officer. He will continue to co-lead the integration and synergy efforts of Big Heart Pet Brands until his retirement.

“On behalf of the entire organization, I would like to thank Vince Byrd for his 39 years of dedicated service to the Smucker company,” Mr. Smucker said. “Vince is a highly respected leader, not only within the company but throughout the C.P.G. industry, particularly with the many customers and strategic partners with whom he has built and nurtured meaningful relationships.  We truly appreciate all of Vince's valuable contributions, which have helped shape the company we are today.”