Robert Holland (executive) facts for kids
Robert Holland Jr. (April 11, 1940 – December 22, 2021) was an important American business leader and entrepreneur. He is perhaps best known for being the President and CEO of the famous ice cream company, Ben & Jerry's, from 1995 to 1996.
A Life in Business
Robert Holland Jr. grew up in a town called Albion, Michigan. He was a very smart student. He earned a degree in mechanical engineering from Union College in 1962. Later, he got another degree, an M.B.A., from the Zicklin School of Business at Baruch College. An M.B.A. helps people learn how to run businesses.
Leading Companies
Robert Holland Jr. worked for many different companies throughout his career. From 1968 to 1981, he was a partner at McKinsey & Company, which is a big company that helps other businesses.
After that, he became the Chairman and CEO of Rokher-J Inc. from 1981 to 1984. He also led City Marketing and Gilreath Manufacturing, Inc., before returning to Rokher-J Inc. in 1991.
Time at Ben & Jerry's
In 1995, Robert Holland Jr. took on a big role as the CEO of Ben & Jerry's. This company is famous for its unique ice cream flavors. He stayed in this job for about 20 months. He left because he had different ideas about how the company should be run compared to the founder, Ben Cohen.
Later Career and Contributions
After Ben & Jerry's, Holland continued his work as a business leader. He was the Chief Executive Officer of WorkPlace Integrators, a company that sells office furniture, from 1997 to 2001.
From 2001 to 2009, he worked as a consultant. This means he gave advice to the leaders of large companies, helping them with their plans. Later, he became a Managing Director at Essex Lake Group, a company that helps businesses with their strategies.
Robert Holland Jr. also served on the boards of directors for several major companies. These included Carver Bank Corp., Lexmark International, Inc., Neptune Orient Lines, YUM Brands, and PepsiCo. Being on a board means he helped guide these companies.
He also cared about helping young people. He started the Make-A-Difference Dropout Prevention Program in Detroit, Michigan. This program helped students stay in school.
Robert Holland Jr. passed away on December 22, 2021, at the age of 81. He was buried at Ferncliff Cemetery.
