Nichole Faulkner, a 16-year veteran at Vermont Soap, has relinquished her position as chief operating officer to become CEO of the Middlebury-based company. Faulkner has been effectively running the company since founder Larry Plesent stepped down as CEO 18 months ago.
Faulkner joined Vermont Soap in 2007 as a sales and customer service agent. Two years later, she was elevated to sales manager. In time, Faulkner was promoted to assistant manager and then chief operating officer.
Faulkner's many successes include leading the company to a 100% score on a recent ISO 2217 Good Manufacturing Processes audit and creating the soon-to-launch B2B division at Vermont Soap, Saponcorp. As COO, Faulkner analyzed and streamlined processes and products resulting in increased profitability without sacrificing the original ideals that the company was founded on.
Vermont Soap, established in 1992, currently has annual sales of $6 million to $10 million. The company specializes in formulating and manufacturing natural CPG products under its own brand as well as for others.