Skyline Chili has hired a restaurant industry veteran and former Procter & Gamble brand manager as its next chief executive officer, the Cincinnati-based chain announced Sept. 10.
The company said Carl Stealey will succeed Dick Williams as CEO. Williams, who has led Skyline since 2023, will remain chairman, according to a press release.
Former P&G brand manager takes helm at Skyline
Stealey will take over as Skyline looks to build on a major investment campaign and expand its reach beyond its core business.
"The opportunity is not to reinvent Skyline," Stealey said in the press release. "It is to build on what makes Skyline extraordinary and find new opportunities to introduce more people to a brand Cincinnati has loved for generations."
Stealey has more than two decades of leadership experience
in consumer products, food and restaurants.
He most recently served as chief commercial officer of The Honey Baked Ham Co., and previously spent six years as president of the retail division of The Marzetti Co., growing the business past $1 billion in annual revenue.
He also held senior roles at Conagra Brands, Mead Johnson Nutrition and Procter & Gamble.
Leadership change comes after more than $20 million in upgrades
The leadership transition at Skyline comes after the company invested more than $20 million in upgrades to its commissary, headquarters and restaurants during Williams’ tenure.
"Dick (Williams) has led Skyline with exceptional judgment, energy and a deep respect for what makes the brand so special," said Tom Williams, CEO ofNorth American Ventures − the Williams family's private holding and investment company, whose portfolio includes Skyline.
Since 2023, Skyline has expanded its menu and distribution channels, introducing chicken chili, launching delivery through DoorDashand Uber Eats, testing breakfast offerings, growing its catering business and adding grocery products.
The company also has broadened the reach of its retail products and partnered with several Cincinnati brands on co-branded offerings.
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: New Skyline Chili CEO is a veteran of P&G, Honey Baked Ham
