Simmons Foods Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Simmons Foods has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, administration, and product lines.

Driven by a commitment to quality, Simmons Foods is dedicated to supplying essential poultry, pet, and animal nutrition products, shaping market dynamics through robust operational excellence and a forward-thinking leadership philosophy.

Leadership Roles at Simmons Foods

  • Chief Executive Officer & Co-Vice Chairman - Todd Simmons
  • Chief Operating Officer - David Jackson
  • Co-President - Ted Dorn
  • President, Simmons Pet Food - Scott Salmon
  • President - Joel Sappenfield
  • President - Johnny Bullington
  • President - Derrick Baucom
  • Chief Administrative Officer - Russell Tooley
  • Todd Simmons - Chief Executive Officer & Co-Vice Chairman

    Todd Simmons, the Chief Executive Officer & Co-Vice Chairman at Simmons Foods, directs the overarching corporate strategy and governance. Overseeing all major business units, Simmons ensures alignment with the company's mission to supply poultry, pet, and animal nutrition products. This leadership role involves guiding long-term growth initiatives and maintaining the company's strong market position. By fostering innovation across departments, Todd Simmons drives operational efficiency and product development. The Chief Executive Officer & Co-Vice Chairman also engages with the board to set strategic objectives and manage stakeholder relations, ensuring sustained financial health and market leadership for Simmons Foods. This executive's focus extends to championing the company's values and operational integrity across all facets of the business.
    Todd Simmons

    David Jackson - Chief Operating Officer

    David Jackson, the Chief Operating Officer at Simmons Foods, executes the operational strategies that underpin the company's supply of poultry, pet, and animal nutrition products. Overseeing day-to-day manufacturing, logistics, and supply chain management, Jackson ensures seamless production and distribution across all facilities. This role involves optimizing operational workflows to enhance efficiency and maintain product quality standards. By managing resource allocation and operational performance metrics, David Jackson directly contributes to the company's ability to meet market demands. The Chief Operating Officer also collaborates with other senior leaders to implement process improvements and drive continuous operational excellence. Jackson's leadership ensures the robust functioning of the company's core business activities, supporting Simmons Foods' market presence.

    Ted Dorn - Co-President

    Ted Dorn, the Co-President at Simmons Foods, shares responsibility for driving the company's strategic direction and operational execution. Dorn focuses on key business initiatives that enhance Simmons Foods' market leadership in poultry, pet, and animal nutrition products. This role involves collaborating with other executives to identify growth opportunities and manage complex business challenges. By overseeing specific strategic projects and departmental performance, Ted Dorn ensures progress towards corporate objectives. The Co-President also works to foster strong relationships with partners and customers, reinforcing the company's market presence. Dorn's leadership contributes significantly to the overall success and operational integrity of Simmons Foods.

    Scott Salmon - President, Simmons Pet Food

    Scott Salmon, the President, Simmons Pet Food at Simmons Foods, directs the strategic vision and operational management for the pet food division. Salmon oversees all aspects of product development, manufacturing, and market strategy within this specific business unit. This leadership position involves driving innovation in pet nutrition and ensuring the highest quality standards for all products. By managing the P&L and market performance of the pet food segment, Scott Salmon directly impacts revenue growth and market share. The President, Simmons Pet Food also collaborates with the broader executive team to align pet food strategies with overall company goals. Salmon's expertise ensures Simmons Pet Food remains a leader in its category.

    Joel Sappenfield - President

    Joel Sappenfield, the President at Simmons Foods, leads critical operational and strategic initiatives across the organization. Sappenfield focuses on enhancing the company's capabilities in supplying poultry, pet, and animal nutrition products. This role involves driving efficiency in production and distribution networks, ensuring timely delivery and consistent quality. By managing key business relationships and market development efforts, Joel Sappenfield strengthens Simmons Foods' competitive position. The President also works closely with other executive leaders to refine corporate strategy and explore new avenues for growth. Sappenfield's leadership ensures the robust execution of business plans and supports the company's ongoing success.

    Johnny Bullington - President

    Johnny Bullington, the President at Simmons Foods, spearheads strategic growth and operational excellence for key business segments. Bullington directs initiatives aimed at expanding Simmons Foods' market reach in poultry, pet, and animal nutrition products. This leadership role involves overseeing departmental performance, optimizing resource allocation, and driving innovation in product offerings. By managing cross-functional teams and fostering collaboration, Johnny Bullington ensures alignment with corporate objectives. The President also plays a vital part in developing and executing market strategies that enhance customer satisfaction and brand loyalty. Bullington's leadership is instrumental in maintaining Simmons Foods' industry standing.

    Derrick Baucom - President

    Derrick Baucom, the President at Simmons Foods, drives strategic leadership and operational oversight for significant business units. Baucom focuses on advancing the company's capabilities in the poultry, pet, and animal nutrition sectors. This position involves managing complex operational challenges and identifying opportunities for market expansion. By ensuring adherence to quality standards and regulatory requirements, Derrick Baucom upholds the integrity of Simmons Foods' product lines. The President also collaborates with the executive team to refine long-term strategic planning and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Baucom's leadership contributes to the sustained growth and operational effectiveness of the company.

    Russell Tooley - Chief Administrative Officer

    Russell Tooley, the Chief Administrative Officer at Simmons Foods, manages critical corporate functions that support the company's operational framework. Overseeing human resources, legal affairs, and corporate compliance, Tooley ensures that Simmons Foods operates within regulatory guidelines and maintains a strong ethical foundation. This position involves developing and implementing policies that foster a productive work environment and safeguard company assets. By directing administrative services and strategic planning for organizational development, Russell Tooley enhances overall corporate efficiency. The Chief Administrative Officer also plays a key part in managing corporate communications and stakeholder engagement, reinforcing the company's reputation. Tooley's oversight provides essential support for the company's mission in poultry, pet, and animal nutrition.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Simmons Foods Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Simmons Foods?
    Simmons Foods is led by Todd Simmons (Chief Executive Officer & Co-Vice Chairman), along with executives such as David Jackson (Chief Operating Officer) and Ted Dorn (Co-President).
    Who is part of Simmons Foods’s executive team?
    The executive team of Simmons Foods includes leaders such as Todd Simmons (Chief Executive Officer & Co-Vice Chairman), David Jackson (Chief Operating Officer), Ted Dorn (Co-President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Simmons Foods have?
    Simmons Foods has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Simmons Foods’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Simmons Foods includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer & Co-Vice Chairman, Chief Operating Officer, Co-President, President, Simmons Pet Food, President.