AUSTIN, MINN. — Hormel Foods Corp. announced Brian Johnson, vice president and corporate secretary, plans to retire after a 30-year career at the company.

In his role as vice president and corporate secretary, Johnson has responsibility for corporate governance, including advising the company’s board of directors, as well as securities laws compliance and financing matters for Hormel Foods. He also serves on the company’s disclosure, compliance and global impact committees.

Johnson began his career at Hormel in 1995 as a corporate attorney. He was promoted to senior attorney in 2000, then advanced to assistant secretary five years later. In 2007, he was promoted to corporate secretary. Johnson became vice president and corporate secretary in 2010.

“Throughout his 30-year career at Hormel Foods, Brian has been a trusted advisor to me, our executives and our board of directors,” said Jim Snee, chairman of the board, president and chief executive officer at Hormel Foods. “Brian has earned tremendous respect internally, externally and with our board of directors for his expertise, sound judgment, integrity and dedication. Brian and his wife Ann have been an integral part of the Austin, Minn., community, making it an even better place thanks to their involvement and support. We congratulate Brian on a remarkable career and wish him and Ann all the best in this next chapter.”

Johnson is a graduate of Minnesota State University, Mankato, where he received a Bachelor of Science degree, cum laude, with majors in accounting, finance and real estate/insurance, and minors in economics and political science. He earned a certified public accountant designation in 1984. In 1991, Johnson graduated magna cum laude and Order of the Coif with a JD degree from the University of Minnesota Law School. He is a member of the Minnesota State Bar Association, Association of Corporate Counsel and Society for Corporate Governance.

Last week, Hormel announced another retirement of a longtime industry professional, James Snee, who is stepping down from his role as CEO at the end of the year.