Sara Lee CEO To Take Medical Leave (SLE)

Sara Lee SLE announced after the close of trading today their CEO will take a medical leave of absence. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Brenda Barnes will take a temporary medical leave of absense, effective immediately. The company's board of directors has named Marcel Smits, executive vice president and chief financial officer, to serve as interim CEO until Ms. Barnes returns. James Crown, lead independent director, will assume the role of chairman. Shares of Sara Lee fell 17 cents, or 1.14%, to $14.70 during the regular trading session today.