Colgate Grooms Top CEO Candidates with New Positions

Colgate-Palmolive Company shifted the appointments of three current senior executives, all of whom may eventually succeed chief executive officer Reuben Mark. In February, Mr. Mark said he would likely stay at the company he has run for the past 20 years for the next two to four years. He said at some point he would hand off the chief executive post.

Ian Cook was named chief operating officer and will be responsible for all Colgate’s businesses, except Latin America and Hill’s, which includes North America, Europe, Asia, Central Europe and Africa. Mr. Cook has served for Colgate over the course of 27 years in marketing, general management and senior corporate roles.

Javier Teruel was promoted to vice chairman and will review and sharpen worldwide strategy and build on successful disciplines and practices. He will also bring together a committee of division presidents and other senior executives who will be involved in the evolution of company plans. He has served for three decades with Colgate in both subsidiary management and global business development positions. Mr. Teruel will also continue to oversee the Hill’s business.

Lois Juliber was appointed vice chairman and will head global business development, research and development, global product supply chain, information technology and corporate development. She will also retain operating responsibility for Latin America and oversight of corporate communications. Ms. Juliber has served with for the past 16 years in operating units and strategic functions at Colgate.