Hormel Foods Names John Ghingo as New CEO

Hormel Foods Corp. has appointed John Ghingo as its next president and chief executive officer, effective October 26, 2026. Ghingo, a 25-year veteran of the consumer packaged goods industry, replaces Jeff Ettinger, who has served as interim CEO since mid-July 2025. Ettinger, who previously led the company from 2005 to 2016, will remain on the board of directors after his interim tenure ends on October 25.

The appointment concludes a leadership transition period that began with the retirement of James Snee in January 2025. Ghingo joined Hormel as president and board member in July 2025, having previously held leadership roles at Mondelez International, The WhiteWave Foods Company, and Hormel subsidiary Applegate Farms. He has also overseen the company's food service, international, and global operations segments.

Chairman Bill Newlands stated that Ghingo is the right leader to drive the company's modernization agenda and accelerate sustainable growth. This transition occurs as the company manages challenges related to rising grocery costs and shifts in consumer preferences toward fresh produce. Hormel has reaffirmed its fiscal 2026 net sales expectations between $12.2 billion and $12.5 billion.