Search initiated for successor.

The Hershey Co. announced that David Tacka, senior vice president and chief financial officer, intends to retire from the company at the end of the year. Hershey has engaged a leading executive search firm to conduct a national search for his successor.

“Dave has had a distinguished 40-year career at Hershey culminating in his appointment as CFO in May 2013,” said John Bilbrey, president and CEO, The Hershey Co. “He has made solid contributions during periods of transformation and growth and will be leaving the company in a very strong financial position,” he said.

“We have an experienced management team, great talent throughout the organization and the right vision, strategy and brands to win wherever we compete. As we look to the future we have confidence in our business model that positions Hershey for continued growth in both North America and key international markets,” Bilbrey said.