Hormel Foods Appoints John Ghingo as CEO

Ghingo’s appointment follows a tenure as president that began in July 2025, during which he oversaw the firm’s Retail, Foodservice, and International segments. With a career spanning over 25 years in consumer packaged goods, Ghingo previously held leadership roles at Mondelēz International and served as president of Applegate Farms, a Hormel subsidiary. Bill Newlands, chairman of the board, cited Ghingo’s ability to translate strategy into execution as the primary driver for his selection to lead the company’s ongoing modernization agenda.

Ettinger, who first joined the company in 1989 and served as CEO until his retirement in 2016, returned to provide continuity following a leadership vacancy. He will remain with the company through October 25 to assist with the handover before returning to his role on the board and continuing his work with The Hormel Foundation. Ghingo expressed an intention to focus on brand investment and operational efficiency as he assumes the top post at the helm of the $12 billion enterprise.