Sojo Industries has appointed Benjamin “Ben” Tanner as its new chief operating officer, marking a significant step in the company’s plans for national expansion. With over 20 years of experience in operational leadership within the food and beverage sector, Tanner will play a crucial role as the company seeks to enhance its technology-driven packaging and production model across the United States.
Tanner’s most recent position was as the head of operations for Winland Foods’ condiments division, where he managed a five-plant network that generated more than $1 billion in annual revenue. His career also includes senior roles at TreeHouse Foods and Dean Foods, where he implemented large-scale productivity improvements that resulted in multimillion-dollar gains. Before his tenure in the food industry, Tanner was the general manager of Amazon’s distribution and sortation center in Ashland, Virginia, where he oversaw more than 800 employees and established operational systems from inception. Tanner also has a military background, having served for eight years in the U.S. Navy.
Strategic Leadership for Growth
Sojo’s founder and Chief Executive Officer, Barak Bar-Cohen, emphasized that Tanner’s appointment represents a transition for the company from a startup to a more established operational framework. According to Bar-Cohen, Tanner’s expertise in transforming complex systems into disciplined, repeatable processes will be vital as Sojo expands its manufacturing capabilities.
Tanner joins an executive team that recently included Chief Commercial Officer Chad Hagen, alongside co-founder and Chief Financial Officer Steve Rubin and Chief Technology Officer Josh Schwartz-Dodek. The leadership team is designed to enhance Sojo’s ability to meet the increasing demand for flexible, technology-enabled manufacturing solutions that are closer to end markets.
In his role as COO, Tanner will manage Sojo’s manufacturing operations and execution strategy, which includes the rollout of Sojo Flight, the company’s innovative mobile, high-speed packaging platform. He will also be responsible for expanding the company’s facility network and supporting entry into new product categories.
Tackling Supply Chain Challenges
Tanner articulated that Sojo’s approach addresses significant supply chain challenges faced by major consumer brands. By relocating production closer to demand, the company aims to enhance quality and reliability through advanced technology. Board member Michael Zuckerman of 3600 Partners noted that Tanner’s hiring positions Sojo to scale operations with greater efficiency and automation, enabling it to better serve larger customers.
This strategic appointment underscores Sojo’s commitment to accelerating growth while tightening operational discipline in a competitive landscape within the consumer packaged goods manufacturing sector. The company is poised to leverage Tanner’s extensive experience as it navigates this critical phase of expansion.
Sojo Industries continues to solidify its presence in the market, and Tanner’s leadership is expected to be a pivotal factor in achieving the company’s ambitious goals.
