Hormel Foods Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Hormel Foods has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, marketing, finance, and regional operations.

Driven by a legacy of innovation, Hormel Foods is dedicated to developing and marketing a diverse portfolio of branded food products, impacting both consumer and foodservice markets globally with a commitment to quality and growth.

Leadership Roles at Hormel Foods

  • Interim Chief Executive Officer - Jeffrey Ettinger
  • Interim Chief Financial Officer & Controller - Paul Kuehneman
  • President - John Ghingo
  • Acting President - Jay Hormel
  • President (APAC) - Norman Gu
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Jason Levine
  • Jeffrey Ettinger - Interim Chief Executive Officer

    Jeffrey Ettinger, the Interim Chief Executive Officer at Hormel Foods, directs the overarching corporate strategy and operational execution. Ettinger guides the company's global food manufacturing initiatives, ensuring alignment with market demands for both consumer and foodservice sectors. This leadership role involves overseeing the development and expansion of Hormel Foods' diverse product portfolio, which spans prepared foods, refrigerated meats, and shelf-stable goods. By focusing on innovative food solutions, Ettinger drives the company's mission to deliver high-quality products across North America, Asia, Europe, and other international markets. The strategic decisions made under Ettinger's guidance directly influence the company's financial performance and market positioning. Jeffrey Ettinger ensures that all business units operate efficiently and effectively, contributing to Hormel Foods' sustained growth and reputation in the global food industry.

    Paul Kuehneman - Interim Chief Financial Officer & Controller

    Paul Kuehneman, the Interim Chief Financial Officer & Controller at Hormel Foods, manages the company's financial operations and reporting integrity. Kuehneman oversees all fiscal activities, including budgeting, financial planning, and accounting, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards across global operations. This critical role involves safeguarding the financial health of Hormel Foods as it develops and markets a wide array of meat and food products. Paul Kuehneman directs the financial strategies that support the company's expansion in consumer and foodservice markets throughout North America, Asia, and Europe. By maintaining rigorous financial controls and providing accurate fiscal insights, Kuehneman enables informed decision-making for the executive team. The meticulous management of financial resources under Kuehneman's purview is essential for sustaining Hormel Foods' long-term profitability and operational efficiency.

    John Ghingo - President

    John Ghingo, the President at Hormel Foods, drives strategic growth and operational excellence across key business segments. Ghingo leads the development and execution of initiatives aimed at expanding Hormel Foods' diverse portfolio of meat and food products. This executive focuses on enhancing the company's presence in both consumer and foodservice markets, leveraging innovation to meet evolving customer needs. By overseeing critical business units, John Ghingo ensures the efficient production and distribution of prepared foods, refrigerated meats, and shelf-stable goods. The leadership provided by Ghingo is instrumental in navigating market dynamics and achieving ambitious growth targets across North America and international regions. Through strategic oversight, Ghingo reinforces Hormel Foods' commitment to delivering high-quality, value-added food solutions.
    John Ghingo

    Jay Hormel - Acting President

    Jay Hormel, the Acting President at Hormel Foods, provides critical leadership and strategic direction during a transitional period. Hormel oversees key operational functions, ensuring continuity and driving forward the company's mission to produce and market a wide range of food products. This role involves maintaining momentum in the development of innovative food solutions for consumer and foodservice clients. Jay Hormel's focus remains on upholding the quality and integrity of Hormel Foods' diverse portfolio, which includes prepared foods, refrigerated meats, and shelf-stable items. By collaborating with the executive team, Hormel supports the company's global operations across North America, Asia, and Europe. The dedication shown by Jay Hormel ensures that Hormel Foods continues its trajectory of growth and market leadership.

    Norman Gu - President (APAC)

    Norman Gu, the President (APAC) at Hormel Foods, directs the company's strategic initiatives and operational management throughout the Asia-Pacific region. Gu is responsible for expanding Hormel Foods' market presence and driving sales of its diverse portfolio of meat and food products within this key geographic area. This leadership role involves tailoring innovative food solutions to meet the specific demands of consumer and foodservice customers across APAC. Norman Gu oversees the distribution of prepared foods, refrigerated meats, and shelf-stable goods, ensuring alignment with global quality standards. By focusing on regional growth opportunities, Gu strengthens Hormel Foods' position in international markets. The strategic vision of Norman Gu is essential for capitalizing on the unique market dynamics within the APAC territory and contributing to the company's overall global success.

    Jason Levine - Chief Marketing Officer

    Jason Levine, the Chief Marketing Officer at Hormel Foods, spearheads all brand development and consumer engagement strategies. Levine architects marketing campaigns that highlight Hormel Foods' extensive range of branded products, including prepared foods, refrigerated meats, and shelf-stable items. This executive oversees the promotion of innovative food solutions designed for both consumer and foodservice clients. By analyzing market trends and consumer preferences, Jason Levine ensures that Hormel Foods maintains a competitive edge across North America, Asia, Europe, and other global territories. The marketing initiatives directed by Levine are crucial for driving sales, expanding market share, and reinforcing the company's commitment to quality. Through strategic brand positioning, Levine cultivates strong customer loyalty and supports the overall growth objectives of Hormel Foods.
    Jason Levine

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Hormel Foods Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Hormel Foods?
    Hormel Foods is led by Jeffrey Ettinger (Interim Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Paul Kuehneman (Interim Chief Financial Officer & Controller) and John Ghingo (President).
    Who is part of Hormel Foods’s executive team?
    The executive team of Hormel Foods includes leaders such as Jeffrey Ettinger (Interim Chief Executive Officer), Paul Kuehneman (Interim Chief Financial Officer & Controller), John Ghingo (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Hormel Foods have?
    Hormel Foods has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Hormel Foods’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Hormel Foods includes roles such as Interim Chief Executive Officer, Interim Chief Financial Officer & Controller, President, Acting President, President (APAC).