AUSTIN, Minn. — Jeffrey M. Ettinger has announced his retirement as chairman of the board for Hormel Foods Corp. Ettinger joined Hormel in 1989 and served as president and CEO from November 2006 to October 2015. He stepped down in October 2016 from the CEO position. He served on the Hormel Foods board of directors since May 2004 and as chairman of the board since November 2006.

“We thank Jeff for his outstanding leadership of Hormel Foods,” said James P. Snee, president and CEO of Hormel Foods. “During Jeff's tenure, the company experienced significant growth and expansion through organic growth, strategic acquisitions, and a continued focus on new product innovation.” 

The board of directors has asked Snee to be Hormel Foods’ next chairman of the board, effective Nov. 20, adding to Snee’s current responsibilities as president and CEO.

Snee was appointed CEO last October after serving as president and COO since October 2015. He has been with the company for 28 years.