GSF Appoints Everton Harris as Corporate Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer

Golden State Foods (GSF), one of the largest diversified suppliers to the foodservice industry, is pleased to announce the appointment of Everton Harris as corporate senior vice president and chief human resources officer, and the promotion of Campbell Cooper to corporate senior vice president and chief customer and strategy officer.

Based in Irvine, California, Harris joined GSF in December 2024 to serve as a strategic business partner and trusted advisor to the chief executive officer, senior executive team and board of directors...

Church’s Texas Chicken® Announces Changes and New Additions to its C-Suite

Church’s Texas Chicken®, one of the largest quick-service chicken restaurant chains in the world, today announced two important changes to its executive leadership team. The appointments include a new Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) and Chief Legal Officer (CLO) effective immediately.

Church’s current Executive Vice President and CMO, Natalia Franco, has announced her plans to retire at the end of January. Franco joined Church’s in 2023 and helped revitalize and spearhead the company’s branding, marketing, digital and communication efforts over the past two years with...

Marcel Regis Appointed as President, West and East Emerging Markets by Kraft Heinz

The Kraft Heinz Company has announced the appointment of Marcel Regis as President of West and East Emerging Markets, effective February 3, 2025. Based in Brazil, Regis will be responsible for overseeing Kraft Heinz's operations in Latin America, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Marcel recently worked for Loft, a tech company in Latin America, and has 25 years of experience at Anheuser-Busch InBev, where he held leadership roles, including President of Colombia and South Africa, as well...

Scott Mezvinsky Promoted to KFC Division CEO, Effective March 1, 2025

Yum! Brands, Inc. today announced the promotion of Scott Mezvinsky, 49, to KFC Division Chief Executive Officer, reporting to Yum! Brands Chief Executive Officer David Gibbs, effective March 1, 2025. Mezvinsky, a 20-year veteran of the Company who currently serves as President of Taco Bell North America and International, will succeed Sabir Sami, who is stepping down as KFC CEO at the end of February 2025. Mezvinsky will assume global responsibility for driving the brand strategy and performance of KFC...

Hormel Foods Chairman, President and CEO James P. Snee to Retire at End of Fiscal Year

Hormel Foods Corporation, a Fortune 500 global branded food company, today announced that James P. Snee, chairman of the board, president and chief executive officer, will retire at the end of fiscal 2025, following a distinguished 36-year career with the company.

The Board has formed a search committee and will benefit from its existing CEO-succession process to identify Snee's successor. Internal and external candidates are being considered. Snee has agreed that once his successor is named...

Shake Shack Names Justin Mennen as Chief Information and Technology Officer

Shake Shack Inc. today announced the appointment of Justin Mennen as Chief Information and Technology Officer, effective January 13, 2025. Mennen will report to Rob Lynch, CEO of Shake Shack, and will oversee all aspects of technology.

“Justin brings a wealth of experience as a technology leader to Shake Shack, along with an impressive track record of driving innovation across industries,” said Lynch. “He’s joining us at a pivotal time in our growth, and we’re confident his expertise will play a key role in...

Pat Hafner Elevated to President of Outback Steakhouse

Bloomin' Brands has announced the promotion of Pat Hafner to Executive Vice President, President of Outback Steakhouse, the company’s flagship brand. In this new role, Hafner will oversee all operations and drive the continued growth and development of the Outback brand.

Hafner’s journey with Bloomin’ Brands began in the restaurant as a server at Outback Steakhouse. Over the years, he steadily advanced through a series of roles, including Manager, Managing Partner, Joint Venture Partner, and Regional Vice President.

In 2018, Hafner expanded his resume by joining Carrabba’s...

Panera Brands Announces Leadership Change, Appoints Paul Carbone as Interim CEO

Panera Brands, one of the world’s largest fast-casual restaurant platforms and the parent company to Panera Bread and Caribou Coffee, has announced a change in leadership.

José Alberto Dueñas, who served as CEO of Panera Bread for just over a year and a half, is stepping down from his role.

During his tenure, Dueñas earned praise from Board Chair Patrick Grismer for his efforts in revitalizing the company’s menu, improving business margins, and strengthening organizational structure. Grismer noted that Dueñas successfully positioned the...

Meat Institute Promotes Bryan Burns to General Counsel and Welcomes Nicole Johnson-Hoffman as COO

The Meat Institute Announce new General Counsel and Chief Operating Officer

First, Bryan Burns has been promoted to General Counsel. He has been with the company for two years and has occupied the role of Vice President and Associate General Counsel prior to his promotion.

He serves as the liaison for several committees, including Worker Safety, Environmental, and Labor & Employment, and has managed key regulatory issues, including EPA guidelines and OSHA regulations. Burns has also focused on educating members about child trafficking... 

Michael C. Creedon Jr. Elevated to Permanent CEO of Dollar Tree After Successful Interim

Dollar Tree has announced the appointment of Michael C. Creedon, Jr as its permanent Chief Executive Officer. The board agreed unanimously on this promotion citing that Creedon had earned their trust and respect and that they had confidence in his ability to guide the company’s growth and success.

Creedon joined Dollar Tree in 2022 as Chief Operating Officer. He was appointed interim Chief Executive Officer in November succeeding Rick Dreiling and has since led more than 200,000 associates and more than...

Lamb Weston Names Michael J. Smith as President and Chief Executive Officer

Lamb Weston Holdings, Inc. announced that Michael J. Smith, the current Chief Operating Officer, will become the company’s President and CEO, effective January 3, 2025. He will also join the Board of Directors. Smith succeeds Thomas P. Werner, who is stepping down as CEO and Board member but will stay in an advisory role until August 31, 2025, to ensure a seamless transition.

Smith has been with Lamb Weston since 2007 and has held various leadership positions, contributing to the company's growth...

Meat Institute Promotes Key Staff With a Collective 55 Years of Industry Experience

The Meat Institute today announced the promotions of dedicated staff due to their significant expertise, advocacy on behalf of, and experience in the meat and poultry industry. Roya Galindo, Casey Lynn Gallimore, KatieRose McCullough, PhD, MPH and Michael Schumpp have worked for the Meat Institute or in the industry for a collective 55 years.

“Meat Institute members benefit from the experience and knowledge of our staff who have chosen to make their careers in service to the meat and poultry industry,” said Meat Institute President...

Performance Food Group Company Announces Executive Leadership Team Changes

Performance Food Group Company (PFG) is pleased to announce its board of directors has approved two changes to PFG’s leadership team. Effective Jan. 1, 2025, Scott McPherson has been promoted to President & Chief Operating Officer (COO), while Craig Hoskins will transition into the newly established position of Executive Vice President (EVP) & Chief Development Officer.

In his new role, McPherson will continue overseeing PFG’s three business segments: Foodservice, Convenience and Vistar. He will focus on the company’s growth and will be responsible for all aspects of these businesses...

Ahold Delhaize USA Names Greg Finchum as President of Food Lion

Ahold Delhaize USA has announced that Food Lion executive Greg Finchum, currently Executive Vice President, Retail Operations, will assume the role of President, in May 2025.

The appointment comes after Meg Ham, President, Food Lion, announced that she will retire in May 2025. Finchum joined Food Lion in 1989 and has been in his current role for more than a decade. He is a proven leader in delivering consistent sales growth and strong financial performance. Additionally, he has an outstanding track record of building strong...

PepsiCo Appoints Christine Tammara Senior Vice President and Controller

PepsiCo, Inc. today announced that Christine Tammara has been appointed Senior Vice President and Controller effective May 3, 2025, succeeding Senior Vice President and Controller Marie Gallagher, who previously announced her intention to retire. Tammara will report to PepsiCo Chief Financial Officer Jamie Caulfield.

Tammara joined PepsiCo in 2007 and has served as Senior Vice President, Controller, PepsiCo Beverages North America since June 2023, where she drove the sector's control agenda, oversaw financial reporting and control execution, and partnered with the business on accounting and transformation solution...

Hormel Appoints Mike Clausman as VP, Deputy General Counsel, and Assistant Secretary

Hormel Foods Corporation has appointed Mike Clausman as Vice President, Deputy General Counsel, and Assistant Secretary.

In this new position, Clausman will manage the legal support for the company’s brand and business growth initiatives, including commercial transactions, mergers and acquisitions, and intellectual property. He will report directly to Colleen Batcheler, Senior Vice President of External Affairs and General Counsel.

Clausman joined Hormel Foods in 2011, bringing nearly a decade of experience as an attorney in Minneapolis. He has held several key...

Standard Meat Company Welcomes Jill Hunter to Newly Created Position

Standard Meat Company (SMC) announced the appointment of industry veteran Jill Hunter to a newly created position: Senior Director of Sales Operations. In this role, Hunter will oversee and optimize both sales operations and project management processes, while ensuring seamless coordination between sales, R&D, finance, and operations teams.

Founded in 1935 and headquartered at the iconic Stockyards in Fort Worth, SMC is a family-owned custom protein processing and packaging firm with plants in Dallas, Fort Worth, Saginaw, and Ponder...

Ahold Delhaize USA Announces Retirement of Food Lion President Meg Ham After Distinguished Career

Ahold Delhaize USA Announces Retirement of Food Lion President Meg Ham After Distinguished Career

Ahold Delhaize USA has announced that Meg Ham, president of Food Lion, plans to retire on May 2, 2025, after more than 35 years with the organization. She has been at the helm of Food Lion for more than a decade and has been part of the brand’s unprecedented growth, grounded in Food Lion’s heritage of customer service and convenient locations. A successor for Ham will be announced before...

Campbell's Mark Clouse to Retire on January 31

Campbell’s Company announced that Mick Beekhuizen will succeed Mark Clouse as President and CEO, effective February 1, 2025.

Beekhuizen, currently President of the Meals & Beverages division, has been with Campbell’s since 2019, previously serving as CFO. He is recognized for his leadership and role in Campbell’s successful acquisition of Sovos Brands. Before Campbell’s, he held senior roles at Chobani and Goldman Sachs.

Mark Clouse, who has led Campbell’s since 2019, will retire on January 31, 2025, to become President of the NFL's Washington Commanders.

Under his leadership, Campbell’s...

Meat Institute Appoints Nicole Johnson-Hoffman as COO, Bryan Burns Promoted to General Counsel

The Meat Institute has appointed Nicole Johnson-Hoffman as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), starting in January 2025. She will transition into the role as the current COO, Mark Dopp, prepares to retire in March 2025. Johnson-Hoffman brings extensive experience in the regulatory, legal, and sustainability aspects of the animal protein industry, with previous roles at Cargill, OSI Group, and as CEO of the cultivated meat startup Future Meat Technologies.

In addition, Bryan Burns, Vice President and...

Subway Announces CEO Transition

Subway, one of the world's largest restaurant brands, today announced that John Chidsey, Global Chief Executive Officer (CEO), will retire from the company at the end of 2024, after five years of exceptional leadership in the role. Carrie Walsh, Subway's current President of Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) and former Global Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), will assume the role of Interim CEO, while a search is conducted to identify John's permanent successor.

"I am honored to step into the role of Interim CEO, continuing to drive key initiatives to help...

USDA's FSIS Shuffles Leadership

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has announced leadership changes aimed at advancing its public health mission. Dr. Denise Eblen, previously FSIS’ Assistant Administrator for the Office of Public Health Science, has been named FSIS Administrator. With 25 years of experience at USDA, Dr. Eblen will continue to lead the agency in using science-based decision-making to modernize inspection strategies and improve public health.

Paul Kiecker, with over 30 years of experience at FSIS, will become Assistant Administrator of...

Publix Names Vice President of Finance

Today, Publix Super Markets CEO Kevin Murphy announced the promotion of Doug Stalbaum to vice president of finance, effective Jan. 1, 2025.

Stalbaum, 45, joined the company in 2019 as director of business analysis and reporting, and was promoted to his current role, vice president and controller, in 2022. Prior to joining Publix, he was a senior audit manager at an accounting firm for eight years, senior director and controller at a restaurant chain for six years and director of finance at a furniture retailer for three years. He currently...

Panera Brands Announces New Independent Board Appointments

Panera Brands Inc., which includes the iconic fast-casual concept Panera Bread as well as the Caribou Coffee and Einstein Bros. brands, today announced appointments to its Board of Directors to bolster its restaurant industry experience as the company prepares for its next phase of growth. Patrick Grismer, previously Chief Financial Officer of Starbucks and Lead Independent Director of Panera, has been named Board Chair. Additionally, industry veteran David Deno has joined the Board and will assume the role of Audit Committee Chair, effective immediately...

Campbell’s Appoints Daniel L. Poland Chief Enterprise Transformation Officer

Campbell Soup Company today announced the appointment of Daniel L. Poland to the newly created role of Executive Vice President and Chief Enterprise Transformation Officer, effective immediately. Poland will continue to report to President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Clouse and remain a member of Campbell’s Operating Committee.

Poland will lead a new Enterprise Transformation Office to accelerate business performance, elevate capabilities, and drive continuous improvement. Campbell’s Enterprise

Chipotle Names Scott Boatwright Chief Executive Officer and Member of the Board

Chipotle Mexican Grill today announced that after a robust and thorough process, its Board of Directors has appointed Scott Boatwright as chief executive officer and a member of the board, effective immediately. Prior to being named Interim CEO in August, Boatwright served as chief operating officer, reporting directly to the company's CEO since 2017.

Responsible for more than 125,000 employees and over 3,600 restaurants, Boatwright has been a driving force for improving the company's overall guest experience. In addition...

Harrison Kircher Named President and CEO of National Chicken Council

The National Chicken Council’s (NCC) Board of Directors today announced that Harrison Kircher has been named NCC President and CEO, effective January 1, 2025.

“On behalf of the NCC Board of Directors, I congratulate Harrison on his appointment as the new President and CEO,” said NCC Chairman Bill Griffith, Peco Foods. “Harrison’s dedication, expertise and leadership have been evident throughout his time with the Council. We have complete confidence in his ability to guide us towards a successful future. His passion for our industry...

Papa Johns Announces Jenna Bromberg as Chief Marketing Officer

Papa John’s International, Inc. (“Papa Johns®”) today announced the appointment of Jenna Bromberg to Chief Marketing Officer, effective Nov. 14. A recognized industry expert known for transformative brand campaigns and deep consumer insights, Bromberg brings a unique blend of quick-service restaurant and modern retail marketing expertise to the role.

“Jenna’s track record of building strong brands and driving innovative marketing campaigns makes her the ideal leader to help take the Papa Johns brand into its next chapter,” said Todd Penegor, President and Chief...

Krispy Krunchy Chicken Announces Matt Testa as New COO

Krispy Krunchy Chicken®, one of the fastest-growing hot food concepts in the convenience store business, has named Matt Testa its Chief Operations Officer. The newest member of executive leadership will focus on strengthening the sales and operations teams for the brand which licenses over 3,000 locations.

“Matt brings us a proven track record of success and growth in c-stores. He has a visionary approach for leading teams to maximize impact, efficiency, and ease for operators,” said Jim Norberg, Chief...

Red Lobster Appoints Larry Konecny as Chief Operating Officer

Red Lobster® today announced the appointment of Larry Konecny as Chief Operating Officer (COO). In this role, Konecny will lead the operational strategy for Red Lobster's 545 restaurants across the United States and Canada. Reporting directly to CEO Damola Adamolekun, he will drive initiatives to deliver elevated food quality, customer service, and operational efficiency, while fostering a culture rooted in teamwork and excellence.

"Larry brings an exceptional combination of operational expertise, a passion for developing high-performing teams, and a genuine understanding of what it... 

Mountaire Farms President and CEO Phillip Plylar to Retire at End of 2024

COO Amanda Irwin Named President in 2025

Mountaire announced the retirement of Phillip Plylar, President and CEO, effective December 31st, 2024.

“We are grateful for Phil’s many contributions over the last 28 years, which have led to the company’s continued growth and prosperity,” said Dabbs Cavin, CEO of Mountaire Corporation. “Phil has done such a tremendous job leading Mountaire Farms that we are now the fourth-largest company in our industry.”

Succeeding Phil, Mountaire announced Amanda Irwin, Chief...

QDOBA Announces Appointment of Former Applebee's COO, Kevin Carroll, as Chief Operating Officer

America's rapidly growing #2 restaurant brand in the Mexican fast-casual category, today announced Kevin Carroll has joined the company as Chief Operating Officer. Carroll brings extensive restaurant leadership experience and is responsible for all aspects of QDOBA's operations strategy and execution across approximately 800 restaurants in the U.S., Puerto Rico and Canada. This appointment comes on the heels of the brand posting a 7.7% increase in comp sales for its fiscal year ending September 2024, on top of last year's 6.3% comp sales growth...

Publix Senior Vice President Announces Retirement Plan

Today, Publix Super Markets CEO Kevin Murphy announced the retirement plan of Senior Vice President of Product Business Development Dave Bornmann after 41 years of dedicated service and the promotion of two officers effective Jan. 1, 2025.

“We are grateful for Dave’s more than four decades of dedicated service to Publix, our associates and the communities we serve,” said Murphy. “He’s been a strong leader keenly focused on growing and supporting our supplier relationships, store merchandising and replenishment, as well as emerging business and health and wellness initiatives...

Two Publix Vice Presidents Plan Retirement

Today, Publix Super Markets CEO Kevin Murphy announced the retirement of two officers and the promotion of two new officers, effective Jan. 1, 2025.

After 46 years of dedicated service, Vice President of Industrial Maintenance and Industrial Operations Purchasing Randy Barber has announced his decision to retire at the end of this year.

Additionally, after more than a decade of dedicated service, Vice President of Facilities Bob McGarrity has also announced his decision to retire at the end of 2024.

“Randy’s dedication to overseeing our non-retail locations...

Boar's Head Brand® Appoints Renowned Food Safety Expert Frank Yiannas as Chief Food Safety Advisor

Boar's Head Brand today announced the appointment of Frank Yiannas, MPH, as Chief Food Safety Advisor on an interim basis, effective immediately. In this leadership role, Mr. Yiannas will be responsible for helping to ensure leading standards of food safety and quality across the organization. He will also oversee the nationwide search for a Chief Food Safety Officer to succeed him.

In addition to his responsibilities as Chief Food Safety Advisor, Mr. Yiannas will chair the...

Jack in the Box Inc. Announces Departure of Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Jack in the Box Inc. announces the resignation of EVP and Chief Financial Officer Brian Scott, who has accepted a new position outside of the restaurant industry. To assist with a smooth transition, his last day with Jack in the Box will be November 20th.

Dawn Hooper, a Jack in the Box veteran of 24 years who has previously served as interim chief financial officer, will assume the role of principal financial officer on November 1st and interim CFO upon Scott’s departure...

Ahold Delhaize USA Announces Leadership Changes at Stop & Shop

Stop & Shop President Gordon Reid to Retire; Roger Wheeler, Chief Commercial Officer, Ahold Delhaize USA, to Assume Role as President, Stop & Shop

Ahold Delhaize USA has announced that Roger Wheeler, Chief Commercial Officer for Ahold Delhaize USA, has been appointed President of Stop & Shop, effective Sept. 30, 2024, as current President Gordon Reid announced his plans to retire in mid-2025.

“At Ahold Delhaize USA, it’s a strength of our organization that we have a depth of internal leadership talent, which will ensure a smooth transition...

Target Names Jim Lee Chief Financial Officer

Target Corporation today announced that Jim Lee has been named chief financial officer and a member of its leadership team effective Sept. 22. In his new role, Lee will be responsible for financial planning and analysis, finance capabilities, internal audit, accounting, investor relations, treasury, tax, risk, financial products and services and corporate development. He succeeds Michael Fiddelke, Target's chief operating officer.

"As a successful leader in finance and strategy, Jim will oversee the central role our finance team plays in fueling our long-term profitable growth," said Brian Cornell, chair and CEO, Target...

The Wendy's Company Announces Executive Leadership Appointments

The Wendy's Company announced today the appointment of John Min as the Company's Chief Legal Officer and Secretary and Mary Greenlee as Senior Vice President, U.S. Operations, effective today. These appointments represent the continued evolution of the Company's leadership structure to drive accountability and accelerate growth. Min will report to President and Chief Executive Officer, Kirk Tanner, and Greenlee will report to President, U.S., Abigail Pringle. Min succeeds E.J. Wunsch, who was appointed as Wendy's President, International in June 2024.

"I'm pleased to welcome John and Mary to the Wendy's team...

SpartanNash Welcomes Erin Storm as SVP, Chief Marketing Officer

Food solutions company SpartanNash (the "Company") today announced Erin Storm has been hired as Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. Storm will lead the marketing function, including the OwnBrands portfolio, retail marketing programs, e-commerce and digital experience, creative services, shopper insights and loyalty.

Storm joins SpartanNash following an 18-year career with Kellogg's® and its spin-off Kellanova™, where she was most recently the Vice President of Commercial Strategy. Prior to that, Storm held a variety of marketing roles with increasing leadership responsibility...

Vital Farms Hires Reena Van Hoven as Chief People Officer

Vital Farms, a Certified B Corporation that offers a range of ethically produced foods nationwide, has hired Reena Van Hoven as Chief People Officer (CPO), starting September 16, 2024. Van Hoven joins Vital Farms from food and beverage industry leader Danone North America. In the newly created CPO role, Van Hoven will lead Vital Farms’ People Team overseeing Business Partnerships, Org & People Development, and Total Rewards.

“We are thrilled to welcome Reena to build on the great foundation our People Team has established. We believe our true competitive...

Vital Farms Hires Joe Holland as Chief Supply Chain Officer

Vital Farms, a Certified B Corporation that offers a range of ethically produced foods nationwide, has hired Joe Holland as Chief Supply Chain Officer (CSCO)beginning on September 1, 2024. Mr. Holland’s proven track record of driving operational excellence for high-impact consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies will help the company continue to raise the standards across the food industry. He will lead Vital Farms’ diversified supply chain team, including its award-winning egg washing and packing facility, Egg Central Station (ECS), in Springfield, Missouri, its forthcoming...

Hormel Foods Announces Retirement of Deanna Brady, Executive Vice President, Retail, after 28 Years 

Hormel Foods Corporation, a Fortune 500 global branded food company, today announces the retirement of Deanna Brady, executive vice president, Retail, at the end of the fiscal year on Oct. 27, 2024. During nearly three decades of distinguished service to Hormel Foods, she successfully led teams across both the foodservice and retail lines of business and served as a key architect of the company's results-driven, high-performing culture.

The company also announces the return of John Ghingo, who will join Hormel...

Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer, McDonald's USA

Today, McDonald’s Chairman and CEO Chris Kempczinski announced that Tiffanie Boyd, who currently serves as Senior Vice President, Chief People Officer for McDonald’s USA, has been promoted to Executive Vice President & Global Chief People Officer, effective August 19, 2024.

In this role, Tiffanie will oversee the company’s human resources operations around the world, including Talent Management, Talent Acquisition, Total Rewards, Learning & Development, DEI, Culture and Organization Effectiveness.

"Tiffanie is an exceptional HR leader who understands that great people are the bedrock of the McDonald's business...

Chipotle Announces CEO Departure

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. today announced that Brian Niccol, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, has accepted the role as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Starbucks and will be leaving the Company effective August 31, 2024. Niccol has served as Chipotle's CEO since 2018 and as Chairman of the Board since 2020.

Chipotle's Board of Directors has appointed Scott Boatwright, Chief Operating Officer, as Interim CEO. Boatwright joined Chipotle in 2017 and has been instrumental in driving restaurant operations for the company's more than 120,000 employees and over 3,500 restaurants. He also led the integration...

Circana Appoints Holly Knightly as Chief Financial Officer

Circana™, the leading advisor on the complexity of consumer behavior, today announced that Holly Knightly, currently executive vice president of Global Finance, Performance, and Transformation at Circana, has been promoted to chief financial officer (CFO), effective Aug. 12, 2024. Already a member of Circana’s Executive Leadership Team, Knightly will lead the global finance and strategy organization including planning, strategy, accounting, treasury, tax, reporting, and investor relations.

Knightly succeeds Anne Bramman, who will transition over the next few weeks following a successful tenure helping to bring together the strategy, growth...

Papa Johns Appoints Restaurant Industry Veteran Todd Penegor as President and CEO

Papa John’s International, Inc. today announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Todd Penegor as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Mr. Penegor has also joined the Company’s Board of Directors. He succeeds Ravi Thanawala, who has served as Interim CEO since March 2024 and will continue in his role as Chief Financial Officer.

Mr. Penegor, most recently President and Chief Executive Officer of The Wendy’s Company, is a proven leader with 20 years of experience in the restaurant and consumer goods industries...

National Turkey Federation Announces Alex Davidson as Senior Director of Public Affairs

The National Turkey Federation (NTF) this morning announced the appointment of Alex Davidson as its new senior director of public affairs, effective August 19, 2024. Davidson, who joins NTF from the Beer Institute, brings a wealth of experience to this key role where he will lead public outreach for the U.S. turkey industry.

“We are thrilled to welcome Alex to the National Turkey Federation team. With his extensive background in public affairs, strategic communication and political advocacy, he is well-equipped to tell the story of America’s...

USDA, USTR Name New Agricultural Trade Advisors

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai today announced the appointment or reappointment of 55 members to serve on seven agricultural trade advisory committees.

The advisory committee system was created by Congress to ensure that U.S. agricultural stakeholders have input and insight into U.S. trade policy and negotiating objectives. The Agricultural Policy Advisory Committee is comprised of senior representatives from across the U.S. agricultural community who advise the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative on overall trade policy matters, while members of the six...

American Egg Board Names Bill Winkelman Vice President of Industry Affairs & Engagement

Nick Jones Director of International Marketing, Erica Mirth Manager of Content & Design

The American Egg Board (AEB) today announced it has named Bill Winkelman vice president of industry affairs and engagement, Nick Jones director of international marketing and Erica Mirth manager of content and design. These important placements reflect key strategic priorities for the egg industry and the national checkoff organization.

“The success of our industry rests with people, and the American Egg Board is continuing to deepen its bench strength with the experienced...

Meati Expands Its Leadership Bench

Meati, makers of mycelium superfood cutlets and steaks sold nationwide, today announced the addition of two new leaders who will help Meati reach its vision to bring one of the healthiest foods on the planet to kitchen tables all around the world.

The new additions include John Bortells, chief commercial officer, and Becky O’Grady, board member. Both bring a passion for Meati’s mission and deep practical expertise scaling brands to national success.

As CCO, Bortells will be focused on driving revenue and expanding Meati’s market. He will oversee sales, marketing and customer experience...

Cal-Maine Foods Names Judd Stevens as Vice President, Operations 

The Nation's leading producer and distributor of shell egg, Mississippi based Cal-Maine Foods, has named a new Vice President of Operations, Judd Stevens.

Stevens has been with the company for over two decades and most recently led the company's Wharton County Foods, LLC as General Manager. He will assume the role of his predecessor, Tim Thompson, effective July 23.

He has managed several other locations for the company in Texas, Florida and Mississippi as well as having served as President of The Texas Poultry... 

Kellanova Moves to Accelerate Global Brand Growth, Expanding Partnership with Interpublic Group

Kellanova (formerly Kellogg Company and maker of Pringles®, Cheez-It®, Pop-Tarts® and more) today announced it is expanding its partnership with Interpublic Group ("IPG"). The announcement comes after an extensive evaluation of Kellanova's global agency model to accelerate brand portfolio growth and support the company on its journey to be a global snacking powerhouse. The move advances Kellanova's Differentiate, Drive and Deliver strategy and the growth ambitions the company has for its stable of iconic brands.

As a result of the process... 

Cracker Barrel Appoints Sarah Moore as New Chief Marketing Officer

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® is pleased to announce the appointment of Sarah Moore as its Chief Marketing Officer, effective Monday, July 22.

Moore's nearly 20 years of hospitality experience is a perfect match for the strong hospitality focus of Cracker Barrel. Her strategic experience in marketing, brand building, and guest engagement will be strong assets to Cracker Barrel as it evolves, taking what is beloved and differentiated about the brand and building on it.

A longtime fan of Cracker Barrel, she join...

Sugar Foods Names Andrea Brule Chief Executive Officer

Sugar Foods, a leading producer of crunchy toppings, croutons, beverage ingredients, pizza toppings and more beloved products for prominent foodservice, grocery, retail and restaurant brands, announced today that it has named Andrea Brule to the role of President and Chief Executive Officer. Ms. Brule, who has been with Sugar Foods since 2004 and currently serves as President, succeeds Marty Wilson, who is retiring. Mr. Wilson will remain as an advisor to Ms. Brule and the Sugar Foods leadership team.

“I am deeply honored to serve as only the fourth CEO in...

General Mills Names Asheesh Saksena Chief Strategy & Growth Officer

General Mills today announced Asheesh Saksena has been named Chief Strategy & Growth Officer, effective Aug. 26, 2024. He will report to Jeff Harmening, Chairman and CEO, join the Senior Leadership Team, and have global accountability for the company's comprehensive strategic planning process and for building long-term, sustainable plans and capabilities to accelerate growth. Saksena succeeds Dana McNabb, following her prior appointment to Group President, North America Retail.

“I’m thrilled to welcome Asheesh to General Mills,” said Harmening. “Over the course of his career, Asheesh has consistently demonstrated...

United States' Department of Agriculture Shuffles Leadership

Several key staff appointments and promotions have been made by the United States' Department of Agriculture (USDA) on July 17.

Promotions

Eric Deeble, who was the Deputy Assistant Secretary for the office of Congressional Relations, has been promoted to Deputy Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs.

Cindy Long will uphold her position as Deputy Under Secretary for Food and Nutrition Service after serving as Administrator for the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)

After nearly three years as Senior Advisor for Climate in the Office of the... 

Gorica Rajcic-Spasojevic Named Headstart Hatching General Manager

Headstart Hatching, a new custom turkey hatchery startup expected to hatch approximately 45 million turkey poults a year, has appointed Dr. Gorica Rajcic-Spasojevic as its general manager.

She brings 35 years of turkey industry expertise to Headstart, having previously held key technical and operational roles with Foster Farms, Jennie-O Turkey Store and Willmar Poultry Company. She is one of the top turkey embryologists in the world.

In her new position, Gorica will oversee operations for Headstart’s state-of-the-art hatchery, the first to include technology from sister company Next Nest Hatching, which provides poults with immediate access to feed, water and light after hatching. She will focus on optimizing poult quality and the potential rewards of introducing early nutrition.

ADM Appoints Monish Patolawala as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

ADM today announced the appointment of Monish Patolawala as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, effective August 1, 2024, succeeding Ismael Roig, who has been serving as ADM’s Interim CFO since January 2024. Mr. Patolawala brings to ADM more than 25 years of experience overseeing global finance and technology teams across leading industrial and healthcare companies, most recently including 3M. As EVP and CFO of ADM, Mr. Patolawala will be responsible for overseeing Global Finance and Accounting, Global Business Services, Global Technology and Enterprise Strategy...

Keck Joins USPOULTRY as Director, Communications

U.S. Poultry & Egg Association (USPOULTRY) announces the appointment of Hannah Keck as director, communications. She will be responsible for the planning and coordination of communication activities for USPOULTRY and its family of organizations, including the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE). She will report to Gwen Venable, executive vice president – expo & communication services.

Keck had previous industry experience with Anpario Inc. and Phytobiotics North America LLC. Her experience also includes serving as departmental journalist for the North Carolina State University (NCSU) Prestage Department of Poultry Science, contributing editor of...

Eric Martino Joins Hard Rock International as President of Hard Rock Cafe & Retail Division

Hard Rock International announced the appointment of long-time restaurant and hospitality leader Eric Martino as President of the Hard Rock Cafe Division, overseeing operations of the company's nearly 200 popular eateries around the world. Additionally, Martino will oversee Hard Rock's Retail Division on a global scale. He reports to Jim Allen, Chairman of Hard Rock International and CEO of Seminole Gaming.

"We're excited to welcome Eric, whose extensive background in culinary arts, marketing and operations will further elevate the already outstanding Hard Rock dining...

FAT Brands Announces Jordan Chirico as Executive Vice President and Head of Debt Capital Markets

FAT (Fresh. Authentic. Tasty.) Brands Inc. announces the hiring of Jordan Chirico as Executive Vice President and Head of Debt Capital Markets. Mr. Chirico joins FAT Brands with nearly 20 years of Wall Street experience and will be focused on the Company’s balance sheet including its $1.2 billion Whole Business Securitization portfolio, additional acquisition financings, preferred stock, and other debt related strategies.

Mr. Chirico spent the first half of his career in structured finance...

Introducing New Leadership & Faces at NTF

Hello from your new President & CEO

Leslee Oden here! Today, I formally assume my role as NTF’s next President and CEO. Many of you know me already, but for those of you that don’t, I look forward to the opportunity of meeting you so that I can better understand how our team can be of service to you. While we face many challenges now and in the future, I feel confident in NTF’s ability to answer the call to action and pursue opportunities to further build our dynamic industry. I am appreciative of all the...

NPB’s Patrick Fleming to Lead Domestic Demand Work

NPB welcomes Patrick Fleming as vice president of demand development. In his new role, Fleming will lead the marketing and domestic demand team on a revolutionary, data-driven approach to make pork more relevant to more Americans. His return to NPB coincides with the culmination of an 18-month effort funded by the Pork Checkoff to develop and deploy new consumer market research and insights across the pork industry.

“The pork industry needs to unapologetically claim the position of taste and flavor for both fresh and further processed product,”...

Target Announces Updates to Leadership Team

Target Corporation today announced it has named Christina Hennington, currently chief growth officer, as chief strategy and growth officer, and Rick Gomez, currently chief food, essentials and beauty officer, as chief commercial officer, overseeing Target's merchandising business, both effective July 7. Lisa Roath, Target's chief marketing officer, will take on the role of chief merchandising officer of food, essentials and beauty in early 2025. The company is initiating an external search for its next chief marketing officer and, until a successor is named, Roath will remain in full capacity as chief marketing...

Domino's® Names Maureen Pittenger as Executive Vice President- Chief Human Resources Officer

Domino's Pizza Inc., the largest pizza company in the world, is pleased to announce the appointment of Maureen Pittenger as executive vice president – chief human resources officer, effective July 8, 2024. Pittenger will report to Domino's CEO Russell Weiner. In her new role, Pittenger will lead all aspects of Domino's human resources strategies and functions.

"We are excited to have Maureen join Domino's as she brings a proven track record of building high-performing teams," said Weiner. "At Domino's, our people are our competitive advantage...

BJ’s Wholesale Club Names Dave Burwick to Board of Directors

BJ’s Wholesale Club Holdings, Inc., a leading operator of membership warehouse clubs, today announced that Dave Burwick has been named to the company’s board of directors, effective immediately. Mr. Burwick will serve as a member of the company’s Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee.

“We are pleased to welcome Dave to our board,” said Bob Eddy, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “Dave brings over 30 years of strategic leadership experience in the beverage industry. He has a strong track record of building brands and leading growth companies...

Mike Brown Retires from NCC; Gary Kushner Named Interim President

After serving for more than 13 years, Mike Brown has retired from his role as President of the National Chicken Council (NCC), NCC Chairman Randy Day announced today.

“We thank Mike for his work in building a strong foundation at NCC and for his years of work to promote the chicken industry in Washington, D.C.,” said Day, who is the retired former CEO of Perdue Farms. “We are now turning our attention to conducting a nationwide search to choose the right person to lead this organization and this...

Shake Shack Names Stephanie Sentell as Chief Operations Officer

Shake Shack Inc. today announced that it has appointed Stephanie Sentell to the role of Chief Operations Officer, effective July 1, 2024. Stephanie is a seasoned restaurant executive and most recently served as Senior Vice President of Company Operations at Inspire Brands, where she oversaw the operations of more than 1,100 company-owned Arby’s restaurants and led 22,000 restaurant team members across the United States.

“I have known Stephanie for more than 10 years and she is one of the most dynamic and compassionate leaders that I have ever worked...

Former Cisco Systems Technology Executive Appointed to Tyson Foods Board of Directors

Tyson Foods, Inc. today announced the appointment of Maria N. Martinez as a new independent director, effective June 10.

Martinez most recently served as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Cisco Systems from 2021 until 2024 and previously held the role of Chief Customer Experience Officer. Prior to Cisco Systems, Martinez held executive positions at leading technology companies including Salesforce, Microsoft, Motorola and AT&T’s Bell Labs.

With extensive experience in operations and digital transformation, Martinez currently serves on the board of directors of McKesson, Computer...

CKE Restaurants Appoints First Chief Technology & Growth Officer for Carl's Jr. and Hardee's

CKE Restaurants Holdings, Inc. (CKE), parent company of Carl's Jr.® and Hardee's®, is announcing the appointment of Justin Falciola as chief technology & growth officer for both brands.

Improving the guest and team experience through technology and digital solutions has been a priority for Carl's Jr. and Hardee's, with a focus on digital platforms and capabilities. In this new role, Justin Falciola will align business goals with information technology, digital strategy and operations, as well as guide the implementation of new technologies and support the digital...