"The board and I are confident John Ghingo is the right leader to guide Hormel Foods into its next chapter," says Bill Newlands, chairman of the Hormel Foods board of directors. "John has quickly demonstrated his ability to lead at enterprise scale, setting clear strategic direction and translating strategy into disciplined execution. Throughout his career, he has built strong teams, strengthened iconic brands, championed innovation and delivered results. Under his leadership, we believe Hormel Foods will be well-positioned to drive our modernization agenda, accelerate sustainable growth and create long-term value for shareholders. As we build on 135 years of history, John is the right leader to move the company forward.

Newlands adds, "We are grateful to Jeff Ettinger for his steady leadership as interim CEO and for nearly 30 years of service to Hormel Foods. He has been a trusted steward of the company during an important period, drawing on decades of experience to support the business, provide continuity for the organization and help deliver a smooth leadership transition. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a deep commitment to Hormel Foods and the communities we serve."

"I am honored to lead Hormel Foods, a company with an extraordinary legacy, trusted brands, and a clear purpose," says Ghingo. "We have real momentum and a talented team. I am energized to build on that foundation—investing in our brands, modernizing how we operate and creating lasting value for our customers, consumers, team members, and shareholders."

As previously announced, Ettinger will remain with the company as interim chief executive officer through Oct. 25, to support a smooth transition. Afterward, he will continue serving on the Hormel Foods board of directors. Ettinger first joined Hormel Foods in 1989 and previously served as chairman of the board, president, and chief executive officer, helping expand the company's portfolio until his retirement in 2016. Ettinger currently serves as a member of the board of directors of The Hormel Foundation, one of Minnesota's largest community foundations and grantmakers.

"Over the past year, John and I have worked closely together, and I've seen firsthand his commitment to Hormel Foods' culture, people and portfolio, and his clear focus on the opportunities ahead," says Ettinger. "I have great confidence in John's ability to lead the company into its next chapter. Hormel Foods is built to last, and I am optimistic about its future under John's leadership."

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