Tom Hayes.
Ocean Spray Cranberries’ board of directors has ‘unanimously’ elected Tom Hayes as the cooperative’s next president and CEO.
His appointment follows the news, announced earlier this year, that Bobby Chacko had been fired from the position amid allegations that he violated the company’s policy against harassment.
Hayes previously served as president and CEO of Tyson Foods, before stepping down towards the end of 2018 due to what the company said were personal reasons.
During his time at Tyson Foods, Hayes is said to have been behind the introduction of a new corporate brand, global growth strategy and approach to sustainability. He also led consumer brands including Tyson, Jimmy Dean, Hillshire Farm and Ball Park.
Most recently, Hayes served as a partner at private equity firm Entrepreneurial Equity Partners (e2p). He has also held roles at Hillshire Brands, ConAgra and Kraft.
“The heritage of the company and its 700 farmer owners is one to be celebrated and shared across the world, and I want to ensure it is protected and positioned to grow for a long time to come,” said newly appointed CEO, Tom Hayes.
“Joining Ocean Spray at such a pivotal moment, as it approaches its centennial, presents an extraordinary opportunity to look toward the future, tackle new challenges, and ensure that this cooperative will succeed for another hundred years.”
Peter Dhillon, chairman of the Ocean Spray board of directors, added: “Tom’s expertise in supply chain management, his understanding of agriculture and the challenges faced by growers, and his decades of experience in the consumer packaged goods industry make him ideally suited to lead Ocean Spray into its second century. We are thrilled to welcome Tom on board.”
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