- Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP, Financial) appoints Mike Van de Ven and Lawson Whiting as independent directors.
- Bob Gamgort transitions from Executive Chairman to non-executive Chairman of the Board.
- Company reports strong Q1 2025 results and reaffirms 2025 guidance.
Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP) announced on April 24, 2025, significant changes to its Board of Directors as part of its continued corporate evolution. The company appointed two new independent directors, Mike Van de Ven, former President of Southwest Airlines, and Lawson Whiting, the current CEO of Brown-Forman. This decision aligns with the company's strategy to integrate diverse expertise into its governance structure.
Mike Van de Ven, who joins the board, brings over 32 years of financial and operational leadership experience from Southwest Airlines, where he previously served as President and Chief Operating Officer. His expertise spans across aircraft operations, financial planning, and strategic scheduling for the airline. Furthermore, Van de Ven has a background in audit management with Ernst & Young LLP and holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from the University of Texas.
Lawson Whiting, the second appointee, has spent over 25 years at Brown-Forman, a leading global alcoholic beverage company, developing and leading iconic brands. As President and CEO since January 2019, Whiting has overseen significant global growth and brand development initiatives. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Miami University and an MBA from the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business.
In addition to these appointments, Bob Gamgort, previously Executive Chairman, has assumed the role of non-executive Chairman of the Board. This move is part of the company's transition from a closely held entity to a widely held corporation, following the leadership transition to CEO Tim Cofer last year.
Alongside the board changes, KDP announced strong financial performance with its Q1 2025 results, reaffirming its guidance for the year. The company continues to focus on expanding its market presence and leadership in the beverage industry, supported by a diverse product portfolio and innovative business strategies.