Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams taps ex-Ben & Jerry’s CEO David Stever
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams has recruited former Ben & Jerry’s CEO David Stever to drive US growth, leveraging his operational excellence and brand-scaling experience. Jeni’s, founded in 2002, supplies over 90 scoop shops and retailers including Kroger, Whole Foods, Target and Albertsons, with expansion through franchising and new product development.
1. Leadership Transition
Jeni’s has appointed David Stever, former CEO of Ben & Jerry’s (May 2023–April 2025) and adjunct professor at Champlain College, as its new US CEO. Stever is expected to lead Jeni’s through its next growth phase by leveraging his expertise in operational excellence and scaling global ice-cream brands.
2. Retail Partnerships and Operations
Since its 2002 founding, Jeni’s has grown into a supplier for major US retailers—including Kroger, Whole Foods, Target and Albertsons—and operates more than 90 company-owned scoop shops. The company’s product portfolio spans breakthrough flavor development and new formats designed to enhance consumer experiences.
3. Expansion Strategy and Market Context
Jeni’s launched a franchising fellowship in September to accelerate national footprint expansion. Stever will focus on building consumer experiences and product innovation amid ongoing consolidation in the ice-cream industry, as major players spin off or exit their frozen dessert units.