Hormel Foods has appointed John Ghingo as its new president and chief executive officer, with the leadership change set to take effect on 26 October 2026.
Ghingo, who has served as president and a member of the Hormel Foods board of directors since July 2025, will succeed Jeff Ettinger, who has been serving as interim CEO. Ghingo will continue to sit on the company’s board.
As president, Ghingo has overseen the company’s Retail, Foodservice and International segments, alongside global operations, supply chain, research and development, information technology and corporate strategy.
He initially rejoined Hormel Foods in 2024 as executive vice president of the Retail business, its largest segment by net sales, before being appointed president the following year.
Bill Newlands, chairman of the Hormel Foods board, said: “John has quickly demonstrated his ability to lead at enterprise scale, setting clear strategic direction and translating strategy into disciplined execution. Under his leadership, we believe Hormel Foods will be well positioned to drive our modernisation agenda, accelerate sustainable growth and create long-term value for shareholders.”
Ghingo brings more than 25 years of consumer packaged goods experience to the role. Before returning to Hormel Foods, he spent more than 15 years at Mondelēz International in marketing and general management positions, working with brands including Oreo and Cadbury.
He subsequently served as president of plant-based foods and beverages at The WhiteWave Foods Company, where he led the Silk and So Delicious Dairy Free brands.
Ghingo first joined Hormel Foods in 2018 as president of Applegate Farms, a position he held until 2022. He later became CEO of a better-for-you snacking company backed by private equity firm Kainos Capital, before returning to Hormel Foods.
The incoming CEO said: “We have real momentum and a talented team. I am energised to build on that foundation, investing in our brands, modernising how we operate and creating lasting value for our customers, consumers, team members and shareholders.”
Ettinger will remain as interim CEO through 25 October 2026 to support the transition, after which he will continue as a member of the Hormel Foods board.
He first joined Hormel Foods in 1989 and previously served as chairman, president and CEO, before retiring from the company in 2016. During his career, he helped expand Hormel Foods’ portfolio and international position.
Newlands praised Ettinger for providing continuity during the transition and recognised his nearly three decades of service to the company.
Ettinger added that he has worked closely with Ghingo over the past year and expressed confidence in his ability to lead the company.
Hormel Foods, headquartered in Austin, Minnesota, reported annual revenue of more than $12 billion and owns a portfolio spanning brands including Spam, Skippy, Planters and more.
by Leah Smith
Source: foodbev.com
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