Lamb Weston Holdings has named Mike Smith as the frozen potato products company’s chief operating officer, effective May 29. He will continue to report to Tom Werner, president and chief executive officer of the Eagle, Idaho, USA-headquartered operation.
In this newly created position, Smith will have accountability for the commercial, supply chain, agriculture, marketing and Innovation organizations for the company.
“Creating this role helps position us for further growth by integrating our global operating teams, providing a truly end-to-end view of our entire business that we believe will unlock new efficiencies and scalable growth opportunities,” said Werner. “Mike is a proven leader at Lamb Weston whose numerous contributions have driven strong growth across multiple areas of our business. I’m confident he will provide a critical global perspective on the business and continue to deliver strong results in this new position.”
Smith has been a key leader at Lamb Weston since joining the company in 2007. Most recently, he led the North American foodservice and retail businesses to record sales and launched award-winning innovation as senior vice president and general manager for foodservice, retail, marketing and innovation. The new chief operating officer previously led strategy development for the company as senior vice president, growth and strategy, a role that included accountability for global research, innovation and marketing organizations.
Smith holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Brigham Young University and an MBA from the Cox School of Business at Southern Methodist University.
In connection with Smith’s new role, effective May 29 Sharon Miller will become President, North America, and Marc Schroeder will become President, International, both reporting to Smith. Gerardo Scheufler also will report to him in his role as the company’s chief supply chain officer.
About Lamb Weston
In addition to producing a wide range of frozen potato, products, Lamb Weston, along with its joint venture partners, is a supplier of frozen appetizers and vegetables to restaurants and retail stores around the world. For more than 70 years, it has led the industry in innovation, introducing inventive products that simplify back-of-house management for its customers and satisfying their customers.
