CEO of Bob Evans Farms stepping down; interim Office of the CEO created

The CEO of Bob Evans Farms Inc. is stepping down after more than eight years in the post by mutual agreement with the company as the restaurant operator works on improving its performance.

Steve Davis is also giving up his position as a board member.

Bob Evans Farms said Monday it has created an interim Office of the CEO while it looks for a permanent replacement as CEO. It named Chief Financial Officer Mark Hood and Mike Townsley, president of the Bob Evans Foods division, to the office.

Bob Evan Farms has been working with several advisory firms to improve its productivity and cost controls. The New Albany, Ohio-based company also said earlier this month that it has hired Lazard to review its strategic and financial plans.