Seaboard Corporation announced today that Darwin "Duke" Sand has been named the next president and chief executive officer of Seaboard Foods  LLC. Sand, with more than 30 years of pork industry experience, is a 22‑year veteran of Seaboard Foods and has been instrumental in leading the company from a start‑up operation in the mid‑1990s to a leading connected food system company, producing and selling premium pork products throughout the United States and internationally. Sand assumes his new role immediately.

Steven J. Bresky, president and chief executive officer of Seaboard Corporation, stated, "As a pork industry veteran with vast experience and knowledge, Duke's leadership will advance our uniquely connected food system to help achieve our vision to create the most sought‑after pork in the industry. I'm confident that with Duke's energy, expertise and dedication, he will continue to lead us on a path that showcases our commitment to produce wholesome and delicious pork products to customers around the world."

Sand joined Seaboard Foods in 1996 and was instrumental in building Seaboard Foods' reputation as a leading U.S. pork exporter. Prior to becoming Seaboard Foods' senior vice president of sales with responsibilities for all sales and marketing in 2011, he was in charge of the Seaboard Foods' pork export business as vice president of international sales. Sand started his career at IBP, Inc. in 1987 and held a variety of sales leadership roles until 1996. The Altoona, Iowa, native received his bachelor's degree in business administration from Iowa State University.

Sand will succeed Terry J. Holton, who recently announced his retirement. 

Holton stated, "I've had the honor to work with Duke for the past 20‑plus years and have admired his commitment and passion to Seaboard Foods, and providing our customers with quality pork products and exceptional customer service. Under his leadership, I expect for Seaboard Foods and the connected food system to continue making its positive mark in the food industry."

Sand stated, "I'm honored to assume this new leadership role with Seaboard Foods. With Terry as my mentor, I've learned the business and have a great example of leadership to follow. I commit to Seaboard Foods' employees, strategic partners and customers to remain focused on our commitment to pursuing pork perfection that will bring value to our connected food system and our customers throughout the world."

Source: Seaboard Foods