Clorox Taps Company Veteran Johnston as CEO

When Clorox Co. chairman and chief executive Craig Sullivan announced eight months ago that the company had hired an executive search firm to help find his successor, Gerald E. Johnston stood by stoically.

Mr. Johnston, the company’s president and chief operating officer since 1999, was seen by some to be the natural choice to replace Sullivan, who was planning to retire. But, instead of coasting into the position, Johnston was going to have to compete against outside candidates for it.

On Thursday, the Oakland, CA-based company said the 22-year Clorox veteran would become its chief executive, effective July 1. Mr. Johnston, who will retain the title of president, also was named to the Clorox board.

Mr. Johnston, 55 years old, came to Clorox in 1981 after 10 years with Procter & Gamble Co. He has held a variety of positions since he joined as national sales manager for the Kingsford Products Division. He became a member of the company’s executive committee in 1996.

Mr. Sullivan, 63 years old, will remain the company’s chairman until he retires at the end of this year.