10.27.16
Such sad news today as VariBlend announces the tragic, unexpected death this past weekend of “our friend, colleague and chief executive officer,” Robert Brands, who had served as CEO since June 2014. Brands died in a tragic ATV accident while on holiday with his two grown sons in Oklahoma.
Prior to his work at VariBlend, Brands was president for the Lindal Group in the Americas. Previously, he was managing director of the Personal Care Division of Rexam, which included dispensing systems, makeup and home and personal care businesses.
Details will follow regarding memorial services and related info.
In order to ensure the continued growth, stability and general continuity of VariBlend, the company’s board of directors has appointed Eric Lauerwald, a long-term owner and director of VariBlend, as the company’s interim CEO. He worked closely with Brands, and has “intimate knowledge of VariBlend’s operations on many levels and will lead the company until a more permanent solution can be put in place.”
The Board of VariBlend Holdings LLC stated: “We would like to express our appreciation for all of the significant contributions that Robert has made. He was a seasoned and accomplished leader of integrity who was dedicated to his work and will be greatly missed. His drive to excellence, determination, respect for and commitment to our company will inspire and stay with us always. Above all else, we mourn his loss and extend our deepest sympathies to his wife and children during this difficult period.”
Prior to his work at VariBlend, Brands was president for the Lindal Group in the Americas. Previously, he was managing director of the Personal Care Division of Rexam, which included dispensing systems, makeup and home and personal care businesses.
Details will follow regarding memorial services and related info.
In order to ensure the continued growth, stability and general continuity of VariBlend, the company’s board of directors has appointed Eric Lauerwald, a long-term owner and director of VariBlend, as the company’s interim CEO. He worked closely with Brands, and has “intimate knowledge of VariBlend’s operations on many levels and will lead the company until a more permanent solution can be put in place.”
The Board of VariBlend Holdings LLC stated: “We would like to express our appreciation for all of the significant contributions that Robert has made. He was a seasoned and accomplished leader of integrity who was dedicated to his work and will be greatly missed. His drive to excellence, determination, respect for and commitment to our company will inspire and stay with us always. Above all else, we mourn his loss and extend our deepest sympathies to his wife and children during this difficult period.”