## Campbell Soup Company's Board Transitions: What Bennett Dorrance's Departure Means for the 155-Year-Old Icon

Bennett Dorrance Jr. has joined Campbell Soup Company's (NYSE:CPB) Board of Directors, marking a symbolic shift in the food giant's governance structure. The move comes as Bennett Dorrance—his father—is stepping down after three decades of board service. This generational transition underscores how legacy companies navigate continuity while evolving.

**A 33-Year Tenure Comes to a Close**

Bennett Dorrance's retirement from Campbell's Board closes a remarkable chapter. Since 1989, Dorrance has been the board's longest-tenured member, having served as Vice-Chairman from 1993 to 1996. His service spanned multiple strategic phases, including roles on compensation, governance, and organizational committees. As heir to Dr. John T. Dorrance—the inventor of condensed soup and company president from 1914-1930—Bennett carried deep institutional knowledge that few board members possess.

Keith R. McLoughlin, current Board Chair, acknowledged the departure: "Bennett has been instrumental in stewarding Campbell's legacy through numerous chapters while helping management navigate evolving market dynamics."

**Bringing Fresh Perspective: Enter Bennett Dorrance Jr.**

Campbell has elected Bennett Dorrance Jr., 51, to fill the board seat. Unlike his father's career-long focus on the company, the younger Dorrance brings a diversified portfolio of expertise. His background spans sustainability initiatives, entrepreneurial ventures, and philanthropic leadership—credentials that reflect where large consumer companies are headed.

Dorrance Jr. serves as managing director for the DFE Trust Company and vice president of the Dorrance Family Foundation, channeling resources into education, conservation, and community programs across Arizona, California, and Hawaii. He co-founded the Kohala Institute in Hawaii, supporting local agriculture and renewable energy projects. He also sits on the board of Arizona State University's Julie Ann Wrigley Global Institute of Sustainability.

His educational pedigree—a B.S. in art history from Princeton and a master's in sustainable leadership from ASU—signals that the board is prioritizing environmental and social governance alongside traditional business acumen.

**The Dorrance Legacy and Corporate Stewardship**

What makes this transition notable is its preservation of family involvement while modernizing the board's competencies. Bennett Dorrance Sr. protected the company's heritage during ownership transitions and market pressures. His successor inherits that responsibility but brings different tools: sustainability expertise, land management experience, and networks in the nonprofit sector.

Mark Clouse, Campbell's President and CEO, noted: "Bennett Jr.'s commitment to our heritage and long-term shareholder value, combined with his entrepreneurial background, positions him well to guide the company forward."

**Why This Matters for Campbell**

Campbell Soup Company, headquartered in Camden, New Jersey since 1869, generated nearly $8.5 billion in fiscal 2021 net sales. Its portfolio spans household names like Pepperidge Farm, Goldfish, Pace, and V8. Board composition directly influences strategic priorities—whether the company invests in product innovation, sustainability certifications, or supply chain resilience.

The generational handoff suggests Campbell is weighting ESG considerations more heavily as consumer preferences shift. Dorrance Jr.'s expertise in sustainability aligns with broader trends reshaping the food industry.

**Looking Ahead**

This transition exemplifies how family-rooted enterprises balance heritage with adaptation. Bennett Dorrance departs after providing steady stewardship; Bennett Dorrance Jr. arrives with momentum to shape the next phase. For investors tracking Campbell's governance evolution, this shift warrants attention as the board signals its priorities through board composition.