The Clorox Company (NYSE: CLX) announced that Chair and Chief Executive Officer Linda Rendle will step down from her position for health reasons, according to a company statement.

Rendle has requested the Board of Directors initiate a comprehensive CEO search process. She will remain in her current role as Chair and CEO during the search and until a successor is appointed. Following the transition, Rendle will serve in an advisory capacity.

The search will be led by an independent CEO search committee of the Board with assistance from an executive search firm, the company stated.

"This was an incredibly difficult and deeply personal decision but after thoughtful reflection, I believe now is the right time to begin working toward a leadership transition so I can focus more fully on my health and family once a successor is appointed," Rendle said in the statement.

Rendle has served as CEO for six years and has been with the company for more than two decades. Matthew J. Shattock, lead independent director of the Clorox Board, noted that Rendle led the company through transformation and helped modernize its digital and operational foundation.

The Oakland, California-based company produces household and consumer products under brands including Clorox, Brita, Burt's Bees, Glad, and Kingsford.

Rendle and Chief Financial Officer Luc Bellet are scheduled to participate in a fireside chat at the dbAccess Global Consumer Conference on June 3 in Paris.