Charlotte’s Web appoints former Ben & Jerry’s CEO Matthew McCarthy to board

McCarthy served as Ben & Jerry’s CEO from 2018 to 2023.

Charlotte's Web Holdings, Inc. has appointed Matthew E. McCarthy to its Board of Directors, effective immediately.

McCarthy is the former CEO of Ben & Jerry's Homemade, bringing a blend of commercial acumen and deep commitment to social impact within the consumer-packaged goods (CPG) and natural products industries. McCarthy served as the CEO of Ben & Jerry's from July 2018 through April 2023, where he led the company through a significant period of growth to take the No. 1 market share position in the U.S. ice cream market and operating in over 30 international markets. He was also a member of Ben & Jerry's Board of Directors.

During his 26-year tenure at Unilever, McCarthy held several executive leadership positions including vice president and general manager, foods, North America, and senior director and general manager, U.S. deodorants and men's grooming, among others.

He has also been a key figure in driving innovation, sustainability and social mission initiatives, skills that will contribute to Charlotte's Web's innovation and market leadership in the hemp-derived CBD wellness industry.

McCarthy replaces Susan Vogt, who is retiring from Charlotte's Web board.

"Matthew's extensive experience in leading consumer-focused brands and his commitment to sustainable and ethical business practices align perfectly with our values at Charlotte's Web,” said Charlotte’s Web Chairman John Held. “His impressive background in the CPG sector, especially with iconic brands like Ben & Jerry's, Dove and AXE, brings a wealth of knowledge and insights applicable to Charlotte's Web as we expand our footprint in the competitive wellness market. His experience in brand building, strategic planning, market analysis, and consumer engagement will be invaluable as we continue to expand and innovate in the wellness space. The board also thanks Susan for her valuable contributions over the last three years."

McCarthy holds a Master of Business Administration in marketing from Hofstra University and a Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of Massachusetts. McCarthy will serve on the company's Compensation Committee and Audit Committee.

Alyse Thompson-Richards has held many positions with BNP Media, first serving as an intern at Candy Industry Magazine in summer 2012. She joined Candy Industry's staff full time as associate editor in August 2016 after a few years at newspapers in West-Central Illinois, becoming managing editor in March 2019. Alyse has also served on Cannabis Products Insider since March 2019. She has bachelor’s degrees in journalism and Spanish from Western Illinois University.