New directors bring corporate diversity to c-store chain.
Casey’s General Stores Inc. today announced that its Board of Directors has appointed three new independent directors to its board, effective immediately: Donald Frieson, David Lenhardt and Allison Wing.
The company also announced that H. Lynn Horak, a Casey’s independent director since 2009, has been appointed chairman of the board.
Casey’s newly appointed chairman and new director appointments include the following:
- Lynn Horak, based in West Des Moines, Iowa, is the retired regional chairman with Wells Fargo Regional Banking. Horak has served in many positions with Wells Fargo Bank, including executive vice president, chief financial officer, president and chief executive officer. He also brings more than 30 years of executive leadership experience and a critical understanding of credit markets, consumer behavior and retail analysis.
- Donald E. Frieson, based in Bradenton, Fla., is the former executive vice president of operations of Sam’s Club, a division of Walmart Inc. Frieson brings at least 30 years of operations and logistics experience, including 18 years at Walmart, one of the world’s largest retailers. At Walmart, Frieson led operations of the $50 billion Sam’s Club division, including the successful integration of Massmart Holdings Ltd.
- David K. Lenhardt, based in Phoenix, Ari., is the former president and chief executive officer of PetSmart, Inc. Lenhardt has more than 14 years of senior leadership and retail experience at PetSmart, including two years as CEO; he also previously served on the PetSmart board. At PetSmart, Lenhardt led the transformation to a comprehensive digital model and built a differentiated pet services business.
- Allison M. Wing, based in Minneapolis, Minn., is the former chief marketing lead officer and executive vice president of digital channels at Ascena Retail Group Inc. Wing designed and launched a comprehensive digital strategy at Ascena Retail Group after founding and leading a separate retail company. Wing also has more than 25 years of experience in marketing, digital engagement and e-commerce in the retail sector.
Horak said, “I am honored to take on the role of chairman and to welcome Don, David and Ali, who bring impressive track records in retail and digital marketing capacities, as well as significant executive leadership experience in today’s evolving and consumer-focused retail environment. Their fresh perspectives will be instrumental as we build on Casey’s rich history and continue our efforts to position the company for continued growth and value creation.”
Terry W. Handley, president and CEO of Casey’s, said in a statement, “Our new directors join a Board and management team that are keenly focused on generating increased long-term value for shareholders through key initiatives – such as digital engagement and price optimization programs – to accelerate same-store sales growth and improve Casey’s financial and operational performance. We are confident that through these initiatives, as well as Casey’s new store construction and acquisition activity, Casey’s will be well-positioned to build on its strong track record and continue generating sustainable shareholder value for years to come.”
Handley added, “With today’s additions to our board, Casey’s has the right team in place to provide the necessary oversight and governance to successfully embark on its next chapter. I strongly believe that we have a clear and actionable strategic plan to drive shareholder value, and I look forward to working with our new and existing directors and our management team to execute on this plan.”
In connection with the new director appointments, three incumbent Casey’s directors—departing chairman Robert Myers, William Kimball and Jeffrey Lamberti—have retired from the Casey’s board.