Utz Executive and Leadership Team

Howard Friedman, the Chief Executive Officer at Utz, directs the overall corporate strategy and operational execution for the snack food manufacturer. Friedman oversees the company's expansion and market penetration efforts, ensuring alignment with the mission to provide a wide range of salty snacks. This leadership role involves guiding the company's financial performance and long-term growth objectives, particularly in expanding distribution channels to wholesale distributors, grocery stores, and convenience outlets. Friedman's strategic direction ensures Utz maintains its competitive edge in the snack food industry. By focusing on operational efficiencies and market responsiveness, Howard Friedman drives the company's success across its diverse product lines, including potato chips, pretzels, and tortilla chips, solidifying Utz's position in the market.

Stephen White, the Senior VP & Chief Marketing Officer at Utz, architects the brand strategy and market positioning for the company's extensive snack food portfolio. White directs all marketing initiatives, focusing on driving consumer engagement and expanding market share for brands such as Utz, Zapp's, and ON THE BORDER. This executive role involves overseeing advertising campaigns, digital marketing efforts, and product launch strategies to enhance brand visibility across various retail channels, including mass merchandisers and e-commerce platforms. White's leadership ensures cohesive brand messaging and effective promotional activities that resonate with target demographics. By analyzing market trends and consumer insights, Stephen White guides the development of innovative marketing approaches that support the company's objective of distributing popular snack foods nationwide.

Jim Sponaugle, the Executive Vice President & Chief People Officer at Utz, leads all human capital strategies and organizational development initiatives. Sponaugle directs the cultivation of a robust company culture, ensuring employee engagement and talent acquisition align with Utz's operational goals. This critical role involves overseeing workforce planning, compensation and benefits, and employee relations across the organization, supporting the manufacturing, marketing, and distribution of snack foods. Sponaugle's focus on people operations is integral to maintaining the high standards required for producing and delivering products like potato chips, pretzels, and dips. By fostering a supportive work environment, Jim Sponaugle ensures the company retains skilled personnel essential for sustained growth and market leadership.

Jennifer Bentz, the Executive VP, Insights, Innovation, & Marketing Services at Utz, drives the strategic direction for product development and market intelligence. Bentz oversees the identification of emerging consumer trends and the translation of these insights into innovative snack food offerings, including veggie snacks and popcorn. This leadership position involves managing the research and development pipeline, ensuring new products meet market demands and align with the company's diverse brand portfolio. Bentz's expertise in marketing services supports the effective launch and promotion of these innovations across various retail segments. By championing a data-driven approach, Jennifer Bentz ensures Utz remains at the forefront of the snack industry, continuously enhancing its product lines and market appeal.