Peet’s Coffee has announced that Eric Lauterbach is stepping down after a 15-year tenure with the company, with former Quest Nutrition executive Stuart Heflin appointed as the brand’s new president.

Lauterbach, who joined Peet’s as VP of sales and rose to president and CEO, reflected on his departure in a LinkedIn post, describing his time at the company as “a privilege”.

Over his tenure, he oversaw Peet’s growth into a $1 billion-plus business and led the organisation through major structural changes, including its transition from a public company to private ownership under JAB and back into the public markets with the formation of JDE Peet’s.

“Brands are consciously built by people and culture, and I’m proud of the culture we built over the years at Peet’s,” he wrote. “Now it is the right time for me to move on and create space for the next leader.”

That next leader is Stuart Heflin, who brings more than two decades of experience in global consumer brands. Heflin most recently served as senior vice president and general manager at The Simply Good Foods Company for Quest Nutrition, where he led the brand through record growth and expanded its presence across new categories and channels.

Announcing his appointment, Peet’s said Heflin’s background in brand building, innovation and people-focused leadership positions him to guide the company through its next chapter. Lauterbach endorsed the choice, noting Heflin’s “deep appreciation for brands with soul” and “ability to lead with both vision and heart”.

Peet’s thanked Lauterbach for his leadership and commitment, crediting his long-standing role in shaping the company’s trajectory.

Heflin has now officially stepped into the role as Peet’s enters what it called its “next phase” of growth.