Clorox COO to retire; two SVPs to transition to EVP-COO roles

OAKLAND, Calif. – The Clorox Co. on Tuesday announced that COO Lawrence S. "Larry" Peiros, 57, will retire from the company effective April 1, 2013.

Peiros, who joined Clorox in 1980 as a summer intern, was appointed a member of the company's executive committee in 1999 and then to the COO role in 2007. He also oversees the marketing, sales, research & development and product supply functions as well as Clorox's Eco office.

"Larry's influence and leadership have been profound," said chairman and CEO Don Knauss. "He strongly led our businesses and core functions, helping to grow sales and market share over a multiyear period. Throughout his 32 years, Larry has been selfless in driving the success of the business and the organization. We are indebted to him for his many contributions and wish him the very best."

Effective Jan. 1, 2013, the company will move to a structure with two COOs. Benno Dorer, 48, currently SVP cleaning division & Canada, will be promoted to EVP and COO cleaning, international and corporate strategy. Dorer will have responsibility for the laundry, home care and international business units as well as take on responsibility for corporate strategy and growth.

George Roeth, 51, currently SVP specialty division, will be promoted to EVP and COO household and lifestyle. Roeth will have responsibility for the Charcoal, Glad, Litter, Food, Brita and Burt's Bees business units. He will also have responsibility for the company's core functions: marketing, sales, product supply and research & development.