In a significant shake-up of its leadership, the iconic ice cream maker Ben & Jerry's has removed Anuradha Mittal from her position as chair of its independent board. The company announced the move on December 15, 2025, alongside the introduction of new term limits for board members.
A Sudden Leadership Change
The decision to oust Mittal marks a pivotal moment for the socially conscious brand, which is owned by consumer goods giant Unilever but operates with a unique, mission-driven independent board. Mittal, a long-time social justice activist, had been a prominent figure steering the company's progressive stances on various political and environmental issues.
Her tenure included overseeing the launch of activist-themed products like Pecan Resist in 2018, which was created to protest presidential policies and support activist organizations. The board's actions have frequently generated headlines, balancing commercial interests with the brand's foundational social values.
New Governance Rules Introduced
Concurrent with Mittal's removal, Ben & Jerry's has established new term limits for its independent board members. This structural change is designed to ensure regular refreshment of perspectives and governance at the highest level of the company.
While the specific length of the new term limits was not disclosed in the initial announcement, the move signals a formalization of board tenure policies. Such governance shifts are often implemented to align with modern corporate best practices and to foster ongoing strategic renewal.
Implications for Brand Direction
The leadership transition raises immediate questions about the future direction of Ben & Jerry's social mission. The independent board exists to protect the company's commitment to progressive causes, a structure put in place when Unilever acquired the brand.
Industry observers will be watching closely to see if this change alters the brand's vocal public stance on political and social issues. The appointment of a new board chair and the practical application of the term limits will be the next critical steps in this corporate evolution.
This restructuring comes at a time when many consumer-facing companies are scrutinizing their governance models and public engagements. For a brand built as much on its values as its flavors, changes at the board level are closely tied to its identity and customer perception.
