FAIRFIELD, Calif. — Robert Simpson, president and chief operating officer of the Jelly Belly Candy Co., plans to retire at the end of this month.

The candy company said Friday that Simpson is slated to retire effective March 31 after 15 years with the company.

Appointed to his current post in 2000, Simpson is responsible for Jelly Belly’s executive and operational functions in all national and international markets and oversees retail operations at company-owned stores and Jelly Belly Visitor Centers.

Jelly Belly noted that he led the company’s expansion into international markets, including new business operations to build and leverage Jelly Belly’s brand awareness, positioning Jelly Belly as a global confectionery leader. Also under his leadership, a successful global licensing program was launched, along with co-branded partnerships, the company said.

Simpson joined Jelly Belly after a 30-year career at Raley’s Inc., a regional supermarket chain. As senior director of marketing and merchandising, he designed th eretailer’s marketing and merchandising strategies, developed new store formats, and directed competitive and consumer research initiatives.

In addition, Simpson recently completed a two-year term as chairman of the board of trustees of the National Confectioners Association.

“It has been a phenomenal 15 years, and I am so appreciative of having worked on an iconic brand that positively impacts the lives of our employees, business partners and consumers,”  Simpson stated. “What we accomplish is admired throughout the industry. I know there are even more great things ahead.”