Hormel Foods Corporation (NYSE:HRL) has named John Ghingo as its next president and chief executive officer, with his appointment set to take effect on 26 October 2026.
Ghingo will succeed Jeff Ettinger, who has led the company as interim chief executive during the board’s search for a permanent successor.
Experienced Executive to Lead Next Phase of Growth
Ghingo has served as president of Hormel Foods and as a member of the company’s board of directors since July 2025. He will remain on the board after assuming the role of chief executive.
As president, he has been responsible for overseeing the company’s Retail, Foodservice and International divisions, along with global operations, supply chain management, research and development, information technology and corporate strategy.
Ghingo returned to Hormel Foods in 2024 as executive vice president of the Retail business before being promoted to president in July 2025.
He brings more than 25 years of experience in the consumer packaged goods sector. His previous positions include serving as president of Applegate Farms, a Hormel Foods subsidiary, between 2018 and 2022, leading the plant-based foods and beverages business at WhiteWave Foods, and spending more than 15 years with Mondelēz International.
He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame and holds an MBA from New York University’s Stern School of Business.
Board Praises Leadership Credentials
Commenting on the appointment, chairman Bill Newlands said Ghingo “has quickly demonstrated his ability to lead at enterprise scale, setting clear strategic direction and translating strategy into disciplined execution.”
Jeff Ettinger to Support Leadership Transition
Jeff Ettinger will continue serving as interim chief executive until 25 October 2026 to ensure a smooth transition before returning to his role as a member of the Hormel Foods board.
Ettinger joined the company in 1989 and previously served as chairman, president and chief executive officer before retiring in 2016. He returned earlier this year to lead the business while the board conducted its CEO search.
Based in Austin, Minnesota, Hormel Foods generates more than $12 billion in annual revenue and owns a portfolio of well-known brands including Spam, Skippy, Planters, Applegate and Jennie-O.
Hormel Foods stock price
