Hormel Foods announced the appointment of Jacinth Smiley as group vice president of corporate strategy. Smiley will report to Jim Snee, chairman of the board, president and chief executive officer of Hormel Foods.

Choptank Transport's President & CEO Geoff Turner has been appointed to the Maryland Economic Development Commission (MEDC). The MEDC uses the expertise of Maryland’s business leaders to make recommendations to the Governor regarding policy, programs and to help prioritize spending. Commission members work with the Administration, the General Assembly, Maryland’s business community and the general public to advocate pro-business policies. 

The American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI) announced today the addition of Elissa McLerran Gilliam as Senior Director of Public Policy. AFFI advocates on behalf of the $65.1 billion frozen food industry before legislative and regulatory entities, elevates the attributes of frozen foods and drives solutions for innovation by providing opportunities for industry leaders to convene.

Two new members are joining Cargill’s executive team as the company makes leadership changes to implement strategic growth initiatives.

(Editor's Note: This bereavement notice was written by the team at Califia Farms on March 15, 2021.)

It is with a heavy heart we share the news of the passing of our company’s founder, Greg Steltenpohl. He built the Califia Farms brand from the ground up with a passion for nourishing people and the planet. Greg touched so many lives on his plant-fueled journey to make the world a healthier place. He will be profoundly missed. We tip our hats to our visionary founder. 

HP Hood has hired Robbie Lock as its new Sustainability Manager. This announcement comes as the company celebrates its 175th year with continued innovation, growth, and a renewed commitment to sustainability.

Fresh prepared food manufacturer Bakkavor has appointed industry veteran Peter Laport as president and CEO of Bakkavor USA. Joining the Charlotte, N.C.-based North American headquarters in late 2020, Peter brings a wealth of leadership experience to the position from previous roles in fresh food operations.

NCC Automated Systems has named John French as director of systems engineering. In his new role, he will oversee the sales, applications and project management teams by providing his 22 years of packaging automation experience and leadership to projects from sales through execution. He will report to Jason Link, General Manager, NCC Automated Systems.

Port of Oakland Executive Director Danny Wan was just appointed Vice President of the California Association of Port Authorities (CAPA). During a week celebrating Ports Day 2021, which highlights the significant contributions California ports made to assist the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Wan fills the key leadership role effective immediately. The role was left vacant following the passing of Port of Richmond Executive Director Jim Matzorkis in December. 

Hormel announced the appointments of Jeff Frank to vice president of Grocery Products, leading the strategic integration of the Planters and Corn Nuts brands into Hormel Foods. The Planters and Corn Nuts acquisition was announced on February 11, and is expected to be completed by the summer. Frank currently serves as vice president of marketing for the Foodservice business within Hormel Foods. Additionally, Annemarie Vaupel, currently director of marketing for the Foodservice division, will advance to vice president of marketing for the Foodservice division.