McCormick ceo to retire in January

SPARKS, Md. Robert Lawless, chairman and ceo of McCormick & Company announced today that he plans to retire from the company on Jan. 1, 2008, but will continue to serve as chairman of the board. Alan Wilson will assume the role of president and ceo effective Jan. 1, 2008. Wilson, joined the company in 1993 and was named president and coo in December 2006.

During his 30-year career with McCormick, Lawless has contributed to the success of the company in a number of important roles. He was named president in 1996 and ceo in 1997.

"Bob Lawless has been a great leader for this company, and I am honored to follow in his footsteps," commented Wilson. "McCormick is well-positioned for global growth with a strong, experienced management team. I am looking forward to working with our board of directors, the leadership team and all of our employees to take us to the next level."