Premier Protein owner BellRing Brands has appointed Michael Axelrod as its next president and chief executive officer, effective 29 July 2026.

Axelrod will also join the company’s board of directors. He succeeds Darcy Davenport, who announced her intention to retire earlier this year. Davenport will remain with the company in a senior advisory role to support the leadership transition and provide strategic support.

Axelrod joins BellRing from US snack manufacturer Snak King, where he served as CEO. He brings more than 30 years of experience in the consumer packaged goods sector, including leadership roles at several consumer businesses.

He previously served as CEO of Del Real Foods, where he oversaw revenue growth, national expansion and operational improvements. Earlier in his career, Axelrod held senior roles at Passport Food Group, TreeHouse Foods and Kraft Foods, and began his career at Boston Consulting Group, advising consumer and retail clients.

In addition to Premier Protein, BellRing owns the Dymatize brand, and has an active nutrition portfolio spanning ready-to-drink protein shakes, powders and other nutrition products.

Robert V Vitale, chairman of BellRing’s board of directors, said the company had conducted an extensive search before selecting Axelrod.

He commented: “His record of strategic insight, strong customer relationships and operational excellence will be invaluable as we embark on the next chapter of growth”.

Vitale also thanked Davenport for her contribution to BellRing, noting that she had led the company through “a significant period of growth” to more than $2.3 billion in sales.

Axelrod said consumer demand for protein remains “exceptionally strong,” adding that BellRing is well positioned for long-term growth through customer focus, innovation and operational discipline.