HAVERHILL, MA (BRAIN)—Pedro’s has let go of Chris Zigmont as its chief executive officer. Matthew Simpson, Pedro’s chief operating officer will step up to replace Zigmont as Pedro’s interim chief executive officer.
“We thank Chris for his significant contributions to Pedro's during the last five years,” said Lars Hellsten, chairman of the Pedro's board. “Chris managed strong accomplishments in taking Pedro’s from a division within a larger company to a stand alone and fully-fledged company.”
Simpson joined Pedro’s last September as global operations director, after 14 years experience working global supply chain and sourcing for top brands like Stonyfield Farms and Grace Darex.
The news he was let go caught Zigmont by surprise after returning from the Taipei bike show, but he acknowledges the down economy created problems for the company.
“The economy was rough on the company, especially last year. But we worked hard to find new investment and pulled things together,” he said.
“I worked with great people, and left the place, Pedro’s and the planet, better than I found it. Matthew is talented and has done a great job at Pedro’s and will continue to do so,” he added.
Zigmont will be taking time off to decompress, though he continues to work with Lance Camisasca at Lifeboat Events and the upcoming Dealer Camp.
“I have been overwhelmed by the number of supportive emails and calls I have received this week. But it’s too early to say what I will be doing,” Zigmont added.
(PHOTO by Jake Orness)
—Matt Wiebe
