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Hormel Foods has announced that John Ghingo will be promoted to the role of president, becoming the 11th person to hold the position in the company’s nearly 135-year history.

Jeffrey M. Ettinger, current member of the Hormel Foods board and former chief executive, will return for 15 months as interim CEO. Ettinger and Ghingo will assume their leadership roles on 14 July 2025, when current president and CEO Jim Snee will step down. Ghingo will also join the Hormel Foods board of directors on this day.

In his current role as executive vice president for retail, Ghingo leads the company’s largest business unit and oversees its consumer brand portfolio. He brings expertise from 15 years of leadership roles at companies including Mondelēz International and Applegate Farms, a Hormel Foods subsidiary.

In his new role, he will oversee the company’s retail, foodservice and international business segments. He will also lead the company’s global operations, supply chain, research and development, and corporate strategy functions.

Commenting on the appointment, Ghingo said: “I returned to the company last year because the history, people, culture and portfolio of iconic brands truly set us apart in the industry. I'm excited to build on that foundation and help shape what's next.”

He added that ‘transform and modernise’ remains a critical part of the company’s strategy and a top priority.

“I'm also looking forward to 15 months of partnership with Jeff, who knows this company so well,” he continued. “I want to thank Jim Snee for his outstanding leadership as well as his vision, values and commitment, which have left a strong mark on our people, culture and the communities we serve.”

Ettinger has had a nearly three-decade long career with Hormel, including serving as its 9th president and then being promoted to the role of CEO. During his tenure, he built a reputation for driving performance and results, with a deep knowledge of the company and its culture.

During his time serving as interim CEO, the company's corporate functions including finance, legal and external affairs, human resources, corporate communications, and ethics and compliance will report to Ettinger.

Ettinger commented: “Serving the company in this interim role is a privilege and honour. What has always set Hormel Foods apart is its people – their integrity, passion and pride in the work they do. I'm excited to support John and our talented team to expand our impact in new and meaningful ways.”

The Hormel Foods CEO search committee will now be dissolved, with the board planning to install the permanent chief executive in October 2026.