Ben & Jerry’s CEO Walt Freese resigns to pursue other business opportunities

Ben & Jerry’s CEO resigns

BURLINGTON, Vt. — Ben & Jerry’s CEO and Vice President of Global Brand Development Walt Freese is resigning, the ice cream company announced Tuesday.

Freese joined the company, now owned by Unilever, which is based in the Netherlands, more than 8 years ago, according to a company statement.

He plans to pursue other business and investment opportunities but will continue to lead the Vermont company through March.

“Walt has done an outstanding job,” John LeBoutillier, Unilever’s senior vice president of foods in the U.S.