Schiffner to retire as Campbell Soup chief financial officer

CAMDEN, N.J. Campbell Soup Co. announced this week that chief financial officer Robert Schiffner plans to retire on Jan. 31, 2009.

According to published reports, he will step down earlier if his successor is appointed, as the company is currently searching for his replacement, but has agreed to remain with the company through January to facilitate a smooth transition.

“Throughout his 33-year career in the food industry, Bob has demonstrated unwavering integrity and a commitment to strong financial controls,” Douglas Conant, Campbell’s president and chief executive officer, said. “As a key member of our management team, he has helped lead the company through a period of significant change. Bob played a vital role in developing the Transformation Plan that renewed and revitalized Campbell and restored it to a growth track. He is respected for his focus and insight throughout the organization and the investment community.”

“Bob has been an indispensable partner to me as we have worked to transform Campbell, consistently delivering strong financial performance while also building our capabilities for the future,” Conant continued. “We are deeply indebted to Bob for his dedication and his outstanding contributions to the company. I look forward to working with him through the transition, and wish him the very best in a very well-earned retirement.”