Tyson Foods on Thursday announced that a longtime board member and former Procter & Gamble executive would become the meat giant’s new CEO later this year.
Jeff Schomburger, who has served on Tyson’s board for a decade and retired as P&G’s global sales officer in 2019, will succeed Donnie King as president and CEO effective Oct. 4. He was named the board’s lead independent director last year and has served on its compensation, audit, and strategy and acquisition committees. Tyson officials said that he would bring “deep customer and consumer brand experience” to his role leading the business.
“His experience will help us accelerate our strategic priorities and unlock new ways to win with customers and consumers — a key focus of our growth strategy,” Tyson Chairman John H. Tyson said in a statement.
"I am honored to step into this leadership role and committed to building on the exceptional foundation and legacy of Tyson Foods,” added Schomburger. “I'm energized by the opportunity to strengthen our iconic brands with superior products, capitalize on emerging opportunities through AI acceleration, and continue to win with customers and consumers.”
King, who became Tyson’s chief executive in 2021, will remain on the board. His tenure at the company has spanned more than four decades.
“Donnie King’s long tenure at Tyson Foods, including his leadership as CEO, has strengthened our business and shaped our culture,” John H. Tyson said. “We are grateful for his steady guidance and look forward to continuing to leverage his expertise within the board.”
