The latest food and beverage industry news and trend analysis

Global CPG manufacturer Hormel Foods Corporation has announced the appointment of current President John Ghingo as Chief Executive Officer, effective 26 October 2026.

Ghingo, who has served as President and a member of the Hormel Foods Board of Directors since July 2025, will succeed interim Chief Executive Officer Jeff Ettinger. He will also retain his seat on the company's board of directors.

The executive succession comes as the Fortune 500 food major advances its enterprise-wide modernisation agenda and long-term growth priorities across its retail, foodservice, and international business units.

Executive Leadership Experience

Ghingo brings more than 25 years of consumer packaged goods leadership experience to the chief executive role, having managed major brand portfolios across meat, plant-based, and functional snacking categories.

Before his appointment as President, Ghingo rejoined Hormel Foods in 2024 as Executive Vice-President of Retail, the company's largest operating division by net sales, before expanding his operational oversight across global supply chain, R&D, information technology, and corporate strategy.

Bill Newlands, Chairman of the Hormel Foods Board of Directors, stated that Ghingo has demonstrated enterprise-scale leadership, translating strategic priorities into disciplined execution across the business.

Ghingo noted that his leadership focus will centre on investing in core brands, modernising global operations, and delivering sustainable value across customer, consumer, and shareholder touchpoints.

Transition Timeline and Executive Succession

Outgoing interim CEO Jeff Ettinger will continue leading the enterprise through 25 October 2026 to support an orderly operational transition.

Ettinger first joined Hormel Foods in 1989 and previously served as Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer until his retirement in 2016. He rejoined as interim CEO in 2025 and will remain on the Hormel Foods Board of Directors following the leadership handover in October.

About Hormel Foods

Headquartered in Austin, Minnesota, Hormel Foods Corporation is a global CPG enterprise operating across retail, foodservice, and international markets. The company's brand portfolio includes Planters, SKIPPY, SPAM, Hormel Natural Choice, Applegate, Justin's, Wholly, and Columbus.