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...

Perdue Farms Announces Perry Aulie as President of Perdue AgriBusiness

Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned U.S. food and agricultural company, is pleased to announce the appointment of Perry Aulie as President of Perdue AgriBusiness, effective July 1, 2024. Aulie succeeds Scott Fredericksen, who is retiring from the Maryland-based company.

Aulie, currently the Senior Vice President of Value-Added Products, has been with Perdue AgriBusiness since 2019. Under his leadership, the Value-Added Business has seen sales triple over the past four years, driven by his innovative approach and commitment to addressing the dual challenges of climate...

Armanino Foods of Distinction Announces the Addition of Two New Directors to Its Board

Armanino Foods of Distinction, Inc., a leading innovator in the gourmet food industry, is pleased to announce the appointment of Tony Muscato and James Ford, CFA, to its Board of Directors, to fill the vacancies created by the passing of directors Edmond Pera and Patricia Fehling. These appointments reflect the Company's commitment to strengthening its leadership team and enhancing its strategic vision.

Tony Muscato brings over 30 years of experience in the food industry, having held key leadership roles, including President & CEO of...

CME Group Appoints John Ricci as Managing Director and Global Head of Agricultural Products

CME Group, the world's leading derivatives marketplace, today announced the appointment of John Ricci as Managing Director and Global Head of Agricultural Products.

Reporting to Derek Sammann, Senior Managing Director and Global Head of Commodities Markets, Ricci will be responsible for leading the development, execution and management of the exchange's agricultural business globally. He will be based in Chicago.

"We are pleased to welcome John to CME Group," said Derek Sammann, Senior Managing Director and Global Head of...

Post Holdings Announces Executive Leadership Changes at Weetabix and Refrigerated Retail Business

Post Holdings, Inc., a consumer packaged goods holding company, today announced planned executive leadership changes at its Weetabix and Refrigerated Retail businesses. These transitions and internal promotions are part of the company’s ongoing business succession planning.

Weetabix
Sally Abbott, Managing Director, will transition to a strategic advisor role effective Oct. 1, 2024, through her planned retirement on March 31, 2025. Colm O’Dwyer, currently Commercial Director for Weetabix, will succeed Abbott as Managing Director, effective Oct. 1, 2024.

Abbott joined Weetabix in 2008 as Marketing Director...

Smashburger® Welcomes Thomas Prather as Chief Marketing Officer

Smashburger®, a leading fast-casual better burger brand is pleased to announce the appointment of Thomas Prather as Chief Marketing Officer. With over 20 years of experience in the food and beverage industry, Prather is primed to fuel the company's global brand strategies.

"We are delighted to welcome Thomas Prather as Smashburger's CMO and are confident that he will be an invaluable addition to our team," said Denise Nelsen, CEO of Smashburger. "Having previously worked alongside Thomas, I know his consistency, attention to detail, and ability to stay current on...

Restaurant Brands International Appoints Patrick Siewert as Senior Advisor in Asia-Pacific Region

Restaurant Brands International Inc. has appointed Patrick Siewert as its Senior Advisor in the Asia-Pacific region. Mr. Siewert has extensive knowledge in food, beverage and consumer products in Asia, having served as Chief Operating Officer and Group President for Coca-Cola in Asia from 2001-2007 and then as Managing Director for the Carlyle Group in Asia from 2007-2023.

In 2017, Mr. Siewert led the Carlyle Group's acquisition of 28% of McDonald's China and Hong Kong business and continued as a senior...

Hargett Hunter Appoints Scott Taylor CEO of New Full-Service Restaurant Platform

Hargett Hunter announced today that 30-year hospitality industry veteran Scott Taylor has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of its newly created full-service restaurant platform, Cherry Bounce Hospitality. Taylor joins the leading private equity firm after serving in C-level executive positions at Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux, Beef ‘O’Brady’s and the University of Florida.

Taylor will oversee the full-service brands Trudy’s Authentic Tex-Mex, Cajun Steamer Bar & Grill and Live.Eat.Surf Restaurants as he builds out the new platform...

U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Key Staff Appointments and Promotions

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced the names of individuals who hold senior staff positions in Washington, D.C.

Crestina Martinez has been appointed Colorado State Director for Rural Development

Martinez previously served as Director of Strategic Outreach & Advocacy at Xcel Energy where she developed and implemented strategic outreach and advocacy initiatives centered on environmental justice, energy equity, and Tribal relations. Martinez also has experience as Adams County Director of Long-Term Recovery & Major Initiatives where she led the development of strategies for equitable economic and health recoveries from... 

Cracker Barrel Elects Cheryl Henry to Board of Directors

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® today announced that Cheryl Henry, 50, has been elected to the company's Board of Directors, effective immediately. Ms. Henry is replacing director William Moreton, who will step down from the Board for personal reasons effective May 28, 2024. Despite his departure, Mr. Moreton will continue to serve as an advisor to the Board and to management through the end of calendar 2024.

Ms. Henry is the former President, Chief Executive Officer, and Chairwoman of Ruth's Hospitality Group, Inc., a fine-dining restaurant company operating...

US Foods Announces the Passing of Board Chair Robert Dutkowsky; Appoints David Tehle as Board Chair

US Foods Holding Corp., one of the largest foodservice distributors in the United States, announced today that Board Chair, Robert “Bob” Dutkowsky unexpectedly passed away today in his home in Florida at the age of 69.

“It is with a very heavy heart that I announce Bob’s passing,” said Dave Flitman, Chief Executive Officer. “Bob was a steadfast leader of our Board, trusted mentor to me and thought partner to our esteemed Board members. He provided sound advice and counsel, and contributed...

The Wendy's Company Names Abigail Pringle President, U.S. and E.J. Wunsch President, International

The Wendy's Company (Nasdaq: WEN) announced the appointment of Abigail Pringle to the newly-created role of President, U.S. and E.J. Wunsch to President, International effective June 17. Ms. Pringle has served as President, International and Chief Development Officer since 2019, and in numerous leadership roles across Development, Operations and Strategic Initiatives since joining the Company in 2002. Mr. Wunsch has served as Chief Legal Officer since joining the Company in 2016. He has been a strategic partner on various international initiatives across Australia...

Meatable Appoints U.S.-Based Meat Industry Veteran Jeff Tripician as New CEO

Meatable, the innovative food tech company on a mission to deliver cultivated meat at scale, today announced the appointment of Jeff (“Trip”) Tripician as CEO, effective June 17. Mr. Tripician succeeds current CEO and co-founder Krijn de Nood, who will continue to serve on the Board of Directors.

Mr. Tripician, an industry veteran with more than 25 years of experience in the organic and natural meat industry in the U.S., will lead Meatable as it prioritizes U.S. market expansion. This expansion will come on the...

Pizza Hut Announces Kalen Thornton as Global Chief Brand Officer

Today, Pizza Hut announced two new executive marketing appointments.

Kalen Thornton will join the company as Global Chief Brand Officer reporting to Pizza Hut Division Chief Executive Officer, Aaron Powell, effective June 10. In this role, Thornton will lead Pizza Hut's global brand strategy and oversee all aspects of marketing across 110 markets and territories. Thornton will also be responsible for guiding the brand to a new chapter of relevance – harnessing the power of strategic, engaging customer connections across physical and digital touchpoints and ensuring that...

Thrive Market Hires April Lane as Chief Merchandising Officer

Thrive Market, the healthy and sustainable online grocery store, has named April Lane its Chief Merchandiser. Lane brings decades of e-commerce experience to her role and has a significant track record of advancing e-commerce merchandising at scale.

As the Chief Merchandising officer, Lane will be responsible for the site’s merchandising, which spans Food, Home, Health, and Beauty. She will also manage the Food Safety and Quality (FSQA) team, which oversees food quality, safety, and regulatory compliance across all product categories, including both branded and owned brands...

Pizza Hut Announces Carl Loredo President of Pizza Hut U.S.

New Appointment Supports Pizza Hut’s Ambitious Growth Agenda

Today, Pizza Hut announced that Juan Carlos “Carl” Loredo will join the company as the President of Pizza Hut U.S., reporting to Pizza Hut Division Chief Executive Officer Aaron Powell, effective June 3. In this role, Loredo will assume responsibility for driving overall performance of the brand’s U.S. business.

“Carl comes to Pizza Hut with a strong track record of positioning brands for success and delivering results in highly competitive markets. He is adept at helping brands show up in novel and...

Standard Meat Company Announces Appointment of Keith Blanks as Chief Commercial Officer

Standard Meat Company (SMC) Co-President Ashli Rosenthal Blumenfeld announced the appointment of Keith Blanks to the position of Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) at the family-owned firm.
Founded in 1935 and headquartered at the iconic Stockyards in Fort Worth, Standard Meat Company (SMC) is a meat processing and packaging firm with plants in Dallas, Fort Worth, Saginaw, and Ponder, Texas. An industry leader in quality and innovation, the company is a global supplier of custom meat portioning and packaging solutions for...

Papa Johns Announces Kurt Milburn as Chief Supply Chain Officer

Papa John's International, Inc. today announced the promotion of Kurt Milburn to Chief Supply Chain Officer, succeeding Shane Hutchins, who will retire after 26 years at Papa Johns, where he served as Chief Supply Chain Officer since October 2018. Mr. Hutchins will continue to work with Papa Johns as a consultant on special projects and to ensure a smooth transition.

Mr. Milburn joined Papa Johns in 2022 as Vice President of Supply Chain Operations and since that time has taken on additional responsibility to include engineering and...

Golden State Foods Promotes Mariana Manole to Senior Vice President, Global FSQR 

Golden State Foods (GSF), one of the largest diversified suppliers to the foodservice and retail industries, is pleased to announce the promotion of Mariana Manole to senior vice president, global Food Safety, Quality, and Regulatory Affairs (FSQR), as well as the appointment of Steve Ross as senior vice president, operations, Liquid Products North America (LPNA).

Based in Conyers, Georgia, Manole will serve as GSF’s chief quality leader, responsible for ensuring all worldwide manufacturing facilities and distribution centers meet food safety laws, federal, state, and local regulatory...

Noelle O'Mara Named Executive Vice President of Conagra Brands

Conagra Brands, Inc. today announced the appointment of Noelle O'Mara as executive vice president & president, New Platforms and Acquisitions effective May 6.

In this role, O'Mara will have responsibility for identifying and scaling new organic growth platforms and acquisitions. This work will span strategy, product innovation, commercialization, synergy capture, and in-market execution.

"Noelle's leadership and track record of delivering results will be instrumental in advancing Conagra's ambition to further scale emerging brands while delivering an ambitious innovation and growth strategy," said Sean Connolly, president and chief executive officer, Conagra Brands...

Hormel Foods Announces Retirement of Jeff Grev, Vice President of Legislative Affairs

Hormel Foods Corporation, a Fortune 500 global branded food company, today announced that Jeff Grev, vice president of legislative affairs, will be retiring after a 40-year career with the company. Chad Randick, director of strategy and current lead of the company's transformation and modernization initiative, will succeed Grev as vice president of legislative affairs.

As vice president of legislative affairs, Randick will assume responsibility for overseeing all state and federal legislative affairs, and regulatory affairs.

"Chad's deep knowledge of our business and leadership experience in finance, sales...

NRF Announces Promotion of Chief Lobbyist

The National Retail Federation today announced the promotion of David French from senior vice president to executive vice president of government relations and executive director of the National Council of Chain Restaurants. Since joining NRF in 2011, French has led the organization’s advocacy strategy to advance the retail industry’s legislative priorities.

“As NRF’s chief lobbyist, David is a great partner of many years who has done an incredible job with public policy efforts that support retailers and the millions of people they employ and the communities they serve,” NRF President and...

KFC Global to Welcome New CFO

KFC Global today announced that Alex Barsk (she/her) will be joining KFC Global as our new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), reporting directly to Sabir Sami, KFC Global Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective June 1, 2024.

In this role, Alex will be responsible for leading KFC’s global Finance function, ensuring continued growth and profitability for the KFC business. She will also oversee KFC’s Financial Planning Analysis and Strategy functions.

Alex joins us from our sister brand, Pizza Hut, where she most recently served as Global Chief Financial Officer...

Kim Lewis Appointed CMO of Capriotti's Sandwich Shop

Capriotti's Sandwich Shop (Capriotti's) announced this morning the latest addition to its executive leadership team: Kim Lewis, the first-ever Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) for the brand. This appointment comes as Capriotti's continues to plant roots in new markets, introduce menu and tech innovations to its operations, and further establish itself as a category leader in the restaurant space across the country.

Kim's experience in marketing spans well over two decades, including more than 15 years in the retail industry and most recently, 6+ years...

Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. Announces Retirement of Jeff Hardin

Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. today announced that Jeff Hardin, Senior Vice President of Sales, is retiring from his position with the Company, effective July 23, 2024. Scott Hull, Vice President of Sales, will assume the executive officer role previously held by Hardin, effectively immediately. Hardin will continue to work with Hull through the transition period until his official retirement date.

Hardin joined Cal-Maine Foods in 1988 and was named Vice President of Sales in 2002. He has played a pivotal role in driving the Company’s consistent...

CKE Restaurants Names Brand Presidents 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 brand presidents for Carl's Jr., Hardee's and International.

Following the separation of the Carl's Jr. and Hardee's brand, the business approach includes a leadership structure with three teams, each led by a president driving execution of strategic growth plans. Mike Woida will continue to lead as International President, Chris Bode was named Hardee's USA President last fall, and Blake Devillier has joined CKE Restaurants as Carl's Jr. USA President...

Matthew R. Ott Named New President and CEO of FPSA

The Food Production Solutions Association announced that it has hired Matthew R. Ott as its new President and CEO. This announcement was made by Brian Perkins, FPSA Chair and President of Provisur Technologies Inc, during the Association’s Executive Exchange & Conference held in Indian Wells, California.

As part of this announcement, Perkins shared, “The Boards of both FPSA and the FPSA Foundation proudly welcome Matt to lead the Food Production Solutions Association. As we rebrand and refocus our organization, Matt is the right leader at the right time...

Land O’Frost Announces the Addition of Directors of Research, Development and Innovation

Land Frost, Inc., one of the nation’s best-selling brands of pre-sliced deli meats and a producer of specialty meats, is pleased to announce the appointment of two new directors to its leadership team. Julie Lubash has been named Director of Research, Development and Innovation, while Paula Ford joins as Brand Marketing Director.

“The addition of Julie Lubash and Paula Ford to our leadership team reflects Land O’Frost’s commitment to attracting top talent from across the industry. Their expertise and strategic vision will strengthen our position as...