LAUREL, Miss. – Rowan Taylor has informed Sanderson Farms Inc. he plans to retire from the company’s board of directors when his current term ends at the 2012 annual shareholders’ meeting. Rowan Taylor joined Sanderson Farms’ board of directors in 1989 and is one of the company’s longest-serving members, said Joe Sanderson Jr., chairman and CEO.

“He has been a valued advisor to Sanderson Farms for many years, and under his 23 years of leadership the company has experienced tremendous success and growth,” he added. “Rowan knew the company’s founders well, and embodied their spirit, principles and ethics in his leadership on our board.


“We want to thank him for his service to Sanderson Farms and for his contributions to building long-term shareholder value,” he continued. “We will miss his good humor, keen business insight and the historical perspective he provided as a board member. On a personal note, I will miss the wise counsel and advice he provided over the years and wish him a long and satisfying retirement.”

Taylor previously served as chairman of the board and CEO of Mississippi Valley Title Insurance Company until retiring in 1992.