SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS — Meat processor Kiolbassa Smoked Meats announced Michael Johnson will become the company’s president, effective July 1.  Bill Wagner, the current president, will assume the role of executive vice chairman.

The new succession plan will be implemented by Michael Kiolbassa, chief executive officer of Kiolbassa Smoked Meats and was approved by the company’s board of directors and advisory board.  

“Michael Johnson is a remarkable leader whose deep understanding of our business, operational excellence, and values-driven leadership make him the ideal person to guide us into our next chapter,” said Michael Kiolbassa, who also serves as chairman of the board. “He has grown alongside this company—from summer intern to executive leader—and has earned the full confidence of our board, our team, and our family.”

Johnson has worked in various leadership roles at Kiolbassa for 18 years, including director of marketing, senior vice president of organizational development and finance, and chief revenue and marketing officer.

He recently worked on putting together values-based leadership and the greater game of business programs while incorporating into the overall company culture.

Johnson has played a significant role in the company’s implementation of Lean Manufacturing Principles throughout the organization, and he co-developed strategic business pillars in 2022, which have guided the company’s growth over the past three years.

“I’m incredibly honored and thankful for the opportunity to serve as president of Kiolbassa Provision Company. This company has played a major role in my life over the past two decades, and I’m grateful for the trust placed in me,” Johnson said. “I’m committed to carrying forward our legacy of integrity, quality, and care for our people as we continue building a business that makes a meaningful difference in the lives of others.”

Johnson began working for Kiolbassa after earning a master’s in business administration from Texas Tech University.

Bill Wagner, who will move into the executive vice chairman role, was the first non-family president of the company and held the role since July 2022. In the new position he will serve as strategic advisor to the senior team and help with mentoring on the finance department and long-term planning with the board of directors.

“Bill’s steady leadership and commitment to building a lasting legacy for our family business have been invaluable,” Kiolbassa said. “He has accomplished more than we imagined possible in just a few years, and his continued presence will be instrumental as we move forward.”

In another executive update, Jerry Carnes, the vice president of sales, will assume expanded management responsibilities and join the company’s senior team.