Hormel Foods Announces Research & Development Executive Appointments

Dr. Aaron Asmus promoted to vice president of R&D; Lisa Selk named vice president of growth and innovation, R&D

AUSTIN, Minn., Sept. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Hormel Foods Corporation (NYSE: HRL), a Fortune 500 global branded food company, today announced the promotion of Dr. Aaron Asmus to vice president of Research and Development (R&D).

Asmus will lead all functions within the company's R&D organization and report to Dr. Kevin Myers, senior vice president, R&D and food safety and quality.

"Aaron is an exceptional leader who combines deep technical expertise with a strong ability to build partnerships, develop talent and deliver results," said John Ghingo, president and chief executive officer-elect, Hormel Foods. "He has played an important role in strengthening our R&D capabilities, advancing key product and process initiatives, and fostering collaboration across the organization. His experience, leadership and track record of results make him well suited to lead this critical function."

In his new role, Asmus will oversee the company's R&D organization, helping drive innovation and commercialization across Hormel Foods while ensuring new products and technologies are developed with a continued focus on food safety, quality and regulatory excellence.

Hormel Foods is also strengthening its R&D organization with the addition of Lisa Selk as vice president, growth and innovation. Selk will report directly to Asmus and will be focused on growth, innovation, and the connection of R&D to consumers and the company's brands.

"Lisa's experience spans consumer insights, brand leadership and innovation, giving her a unique perspective on how we identify opportunities and bring new products to market," said Ghingo. "Her ability to connect consumer needs with business strategy will help strengthen our innovation pipeline and accelerate the commercialization of new products. Lisa is well prepared for this role and will be a strong addition to the R&D leadership team."

The appointments of Asmus and Selk are effective Oct. 26, 2026.

About Hormel Foods

Hormel Foods Corporation, based in Austin, Minnesota, is a global branded food company with over $12 billion in annual revenue. Its brands include PLANTERS®, SKIPPY®, SPAM®, HORMEL® NATURAL CHOICE®, APPLEGATE®, WHOLLY®, HORMEL® BLACK LABEL®, COLUMBUS®, JENNIE-O® and more than 30 other beloved brands. The Company is a member of the S&P 500 Index and the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats, was named one of the best companies to work for by U.S. News & World Report and one of America's most responsible companies by Newsweek, was recognized by TIME magazine as one of the World's Best Companies and has received numerous other awards and accolades for its corporate responsibility and community service efforts. For more information, visit hormelfoods.com.

 

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SOURCE Hormel Foods Corporation