Effective from 28 January, Tyson Foods will make the following changes to its managerial line-up to help with its global growth efforts and the integration of the recently acquired Keystone Foods:
- Chad Martin, who served as senior vice president for Beef Enterprise for Tyson Fresh Meats, will be promoted to group president for its poultry division. Martin joined Tyson Fresh Meats, previously named IBP Inc, in 1996 and held a number of management positions, including vice president of strategy and margin enhancement.
- Meanwhile Donnie King, who previously worked as Tyson Foods’ president of its North American operations, will return to lead the company’s international business as group president. King will be responsible for the overall international growth strategy and overseas operations.
- Doug Ramsey will be appointed as president of its global McDonald’s business, a newly created role for Tyson Foods. The role will involve maintaining a strong relationship with the fast-food chain.
Tyson Foods CEO Noel White said the changes would help take advantage of the company’s biggest growth opportunities in international markets.
“We’re very optimistic about the opportunities in the global market. It’s estimated 90% of the global growth in protein demand will be outside of the US and 60% of the total demand will be in Asia,” said White.
“King’s previous experience, growing both our domestic and international businesses, positions him to lead all aspects of our international efforts and deliver continuous top- and bottom-line growth.”
The move will also help with the acquisition of Keystone Foods, which Tyson Foods bought for US$2.16bn in August 2018. The purchase involved Tyson Foods taking control of eight plants and three innovation centres throughout Asia and Australia.
As part of the deal, Keystone CEO Frank Ravndal revealed that he would step down from his role and remain at the business until March to help with the integration process.
