After Krause delivered favorable results as Antonellis' chief operating officer, the board decided Krause was ready to be promoted to chief executive officer.
"Rich is a world-class business leader with a proven track record for superior results," said a company statement. "Under his career leadership, he has led four major organizations through significant growth and repositioning by creating highly competitive management teams, driving robust operational initiatives and instilling an inspirational vision of excellence. Rich is highly qualified to lead our vision for the New England Confectionery Company by repositioning existing brands with innovative products and packaging, significantly expanded points of distribution, and increased relevance to consumers."