SPRINGDALE, ARK. – Tyson Foods Inc. announced Johanna Söderström was hired as executive vice president and chief human resources officer for the company. She will begin working in this role on July 6.

Söderström will work on Tyson’s global people strategy to support growth and innovation while building the company’s culture, talent and future capabilities. She will report to Noel White, Tyson’s chief executive officer.

“Johanna has built her career on helping companies drive growth by fostering strong cultures where employees feel heard, valued and inspired,” White said. “Our team members are the backbone of our company and Johanna’s vision and expertise will be invaluable as we continue to provide them with a positive employee experience in a safe, supportive environment.”

Söderström succeeds Mary Oleksiuk, who is retiring after a 35-year career. 

“We are grateful for Mary’s leadership, first at Hillshire Brands and since 2014 with Tyson Foods,” White said. “Her innovative approach to team member engagement has enhanced our company in indelible ways and we wish her the very best as she embarks on her well-earned retirement.”

Before coming to Tyson, Söderström worked as chief human resource officer at The Dow Chemical Co. and oversaw the company’s cultural and organizational transformation through the DowDuPont merger and spin-off.

She previously led global compensation and benefits at Huhtamaki, a global sustainable food packaging company. Söderström started her career in Finland at Ericsson and has also held HR roles in Germany and Switzerland.

She also serves as a board member with Neste, the world’s largest producer of renewable diesel and jet fuel from waste and residues.