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Hudsonville Ice Cream has appointed CJ Ellens as its next chief executive officer, effective 1 January 2027.

Ellens, who currently serves as executive vice president, will succeed Tina Floyd, who has held the CEO position since January 2023. He has worked at the US ice cream manufacturer for two decades, holding a variety of roles during that time.

The appointment follows a succession planning process developed over several years by Denny and Scoob Ellens, alongside trusted advisors, to prepare the company for its next generation of leadership while preserving its culture, values and entrepreneurial spirit.

During her tenure, Floyd has overseen a period of growth and transformation, including the expansion of Hudsonville's branded and co-manufacturing businesses and the strengthening of its capabilities. She will continue to support the company during the transition, working with Ellens and remaining involved as a trusted advisor.

As CEO, Ellens will focus on building on the company's existing foundations and positioning it for long-term growth. His priorities include investing in employees and capabilities, using technology to strengthen operations and competitiveness, deepening relationships with partners and pursuing new business opportunities.

Bruce Los, a member of Hudsonville's board of directors, said: "CJ has a deep connection to Hudsonville and a real appreciation for the people and values that are at the heart of who we are. As a locally owned company, that connection to our people and community matters deeply to us. We've watched him grow as a leader over the years, and we're confident in his ability to build on what has already been created while continuing to move Hudsonville forward."

Commenting on her departure from the CEO role, Floyd said: "Hudsonville and its people have come to mean so much to me, and it has been a true privilege to serve alongside this team. I'm incredibly proud of what we've accomplished together and have tremendous confidence in CJ, not only as a leader, but as someone who deeply understands and cares about this company. I look forward to continuing to support the team and staying connected to the people who make Hudsonville so special."

Ellens added: "It's hard to put into words how much it has meant to build Hudsonville alongside Denny and Scoob, and to work with Tina over these last several years. There's a tremendous amount of hard work, sacrifice and heart behind where we are today, and I'm deeply grateful for each of them and the many people who have been part of that journey."

He added: "As we look ahead, I feel a real sense of responsibility for what we've built together, but also an incredible excitement for what is still possible. We've built something special together, and I believe the best of Hudsonville is still ahead of us. I'm excited about the momentum we're building and what we can accomplish together – not only for the business, but through the impact we can have on our people, our partners and the communities we serve."