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Hormel Foods Corporation announced Monday 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, will return to the company for a defined period of 15 months as interim chief executive officer. Ettinger and Ghingo will assume their leadership roles on July 14, 2025. On that day, Ghingo will also join the Hormel Foods board of directors.

In his role as president, Ghingo will directly 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.

“It’s an incredible honor to be named the 11th president of Hormel Foods and I’m grateful to the board for their trust and confidence,” 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. Transform & Modernize remains a critical part of our strategy, and I’m committed to keeping that momentum going —it continues to be a top priority for our organization. I’m also looking forward to 15 months of partnership with Jeff, who knows this company so well. 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 had a nearly three-decade long career with the company, including serving as its ninth president and then being elevated to serve as its chief executive officer. During his tenure, Ettinger earned a reputation for driving performance and results. With his deep knowledge of the company and its culture, and his experience with the company’s external stakeholders, he is expected to be a strong partner to Ghingo. 

“Serving the company in this interim role is a privilege and honor,” Ettinger said. “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.”

“After a thorough and deliberate search, the board is thrilled to elevate John to the role of president of Hormel Foods and elect him to the board of directors,” said Bill Newlands, chairman of the Hormel Foods board of directors. “We are also very thankful to Jeff for his willingness to return as interim CEO for the next 15 months. We are confident that Jeff’s valuable experience with the public markets and investment community, as well as his deep understanding of our culture, will complement John’s expertise with consumer-relevant innovation, brand building, and strategy in today’s dynamic food industry. The board has full confidence in John and Jeff’s ability to strengthen our business, deepen our relevance with consumers, and deliver lasting value for our shareholders.”

“On behalf of the board, we sincerely thank Jim Snee for his steadfast leadership and 36 years of service to the company and its team members, shareholders and communities. We are grateful for his many contributions over a remarkable career,” Newlands continued

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