Richmond-based leaf merchant Universal Corporation said its Board of Directors has named Johan C. Kroner to succeed David C. Moore as its Chief Financial Officer, effective 1 September.

Universal said Moore announced plans to retire effective 31 August and Kroner, who is currently Senior Vice President, will succeed him in this role.
Moore has been with the company since 1978 and served as CFO since 2008. George C. Freeman, III, chairman, president and CEO of the company said, "David's vast experience with the company has been a tremendous asset to me and the rest of management. We will miss him dearly, but we are all excited for him as he embarks on his next adventure in life."
Moore was quoted as saying, "I have been fortunate to spend more than 40 years with Universal in an extremely rewarding career, and I have been honoured to be part of a great team of extraordinary people. I will retire knowing that the Company is well positioned and in good hands. I look forward to continuing to work with Johan to ensure a successful transition of my responsibilities."
Kroner has been with Universal since 1993 and has served in numerous positions in finance and operations. Universal said he will bring “in-depth knowledge of the company's worldwide operations to his future responsibilities.”