Mars names Petrovich new chief exec of Wrigley

MCLEAN, Va. Just on the heels of the completion of its acquisition of the Wm. Wrigley Jr. candy and gum business, Mars has moved a Wrigley veteran into to head Wrigley, the company announced Monday.

Dushan Petrovich has taken over as president and chief executive officer, succeeding William Perez. Perez will continue to serve in an advisory position and will be given a severance package of more than $25 million, the company said.

Perez was the first chief executive of Wrigley who was not related to the founding family. He was tapped for the position in 2006. Prior to his post at Wrigley, Perez served as chief executive officer of Nike.

Petrovich has been with Wrigley 30 years, starting in the financial department and later serving as corporate treasurer, among other positions. Mostly recently has served as the company’s chief administrative officer and senior vice president.