Donnie King has been named president of Tyson Foods’ poultry business, effective September 3. With over 35 years of experience working in the industry, both domestically and globally, he will once again lead the company’s chicken unit, guiding and mentoring members of its leadership team, including Chad Martin, who will take on the new role of chief operating officer of poultry.
“Donnie is a recognized leader who will work to accelerate our strategic growth plans for the chicken segment,” said Dean Banks, president and incoming chief executive officer of Tyson Foods. “We are confident that his knowledge and experience will help us continue strengthening our chicken operations.”
King first joined the Springdale, Arkansas, USA-headquartered company in 1982 and served in poultry plant and supply chain management. He has held a variety of executive leadership positions, including president of North American operations, managing all operational aspects of poultry, fresh meats and prepared foods. He has also been group president in charge of international business.
Most recently King served as Tyson Foods’ group president and chief administration officer, leading areas such as food safety and quality assurance, health and safety, continuous improvement, engineering, and supply chain.
Martin has been with Tyson since 1998. He has led the company’s poultry and beef businesses and has also served in various leadership roles in food safety and quality assurance.
