MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO — Maple Leaf Foods Inc. recently provided some updates on its organizational structure and new positions for executives.

The protein company noted that it would change commercial and operations teams.

“Since bringing our meat and plant protein businesses together under a consolidated protein strategy last year, we have been intensely focused on delivering on our full potential as a Consumer Packaged Goods powerhouse,” said Curtis Frank, president and chief executive officer of Maple Leaf Foods. “Our efforts are anchored in the strength of our leading brands, leadership in sustainability, expanding our geographic reach, and leveraging our diversified protein portfolio to meet consumer demand — all underpinned by elevating our cost reduction focus and achieving operational excellence.”

Frank added that Maple Leaf would be advancing its Fuel for Growth initiative, which is set up to put structures in place to streamline leadership, create clear accountabilities and sharpen its competitive edge.

Maple Leaf confirmed that Mike Yang would join the company as chief supply chain officer starting on Feb. 3, 2025. Yang worked in manufacturing transformation and modernization initiatives with senior roles at Kruger Products, Noramerica International Corp., Irving Consumer Products, and Kimberly Clark Corp. He replaces Iain Stewart, who announced his retirement in May 2025 after more than 25 years with Maple Leaf Foods.

Next, Josh Kuehnbaum will take over as senior vice president of customer business development (Canada) which will consolidate responsibility for all Canadian retail and foodservice sales under a single leader. He has been with the company for more than 25 years.

Finally, Ryan Walker, a veteran presence in Maple Leaf, will start the position of senior vice president of poultry. He replaces Ben Brooks who retires in May 2025 after 21 years with the company. In his last 10-plus years, Brooks worked on various parts of the poultry business, including leadership roles with poultry processor associations.

“I am deeply grateful to Iain and Ben for their invaluable contributions to our organization and their dedication to ensuring a seamless transition over the coming months as Mike and Ryan step into their new roles,” Frank said. “I also want to extend my congratulations to Josh, Ryan and Mike on their well-deserved appointments. I am confident that we have the right team in place to capitalize on our playbook for profitable growth while unlocking our full business potential.”

In July 2024, Maple Leaf confirmed that it would spin off its pork business and create two publicly traded companies.