Christensen Farms appoints Greg Howard as New CEO

USA – Christensen Farms, a prominent player in the U.S. pork industry, has appointed Greg Howard as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, following the retirement of longtime leader Glenn Stolt. 

Stolt, who served as President and CEO for 12 years after the death of Bob Christensen in 2012, played a significant role in guiding the company through challenging times. 

According to Mary Ann Christensen, the farm’s owner and board chair, the decision to promote Howard was based on his capability to lead the company forward while staying true to the principles that have driven Christensen Farms’ success for more than five decades. 

Christensen expressed gratitude for Stolt’s leadership, stating that his vision laid the groundwork for the farm’s future stability and achievements.

Howard, who steps into his new role after several years in leadership within the company, expressed his enthusiasm for leading the team and continuing to build on the company’s legacy. 

In a statement, he acknowledged the efforts of the farm’s employees and leadership team, emphasizing their shared commitment to advancing the company’s mission.

In a parallel development, Christensen Farms announced the addition of Shane Steffensen as its new Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. 

Steffensen, who joined the company in May 2024, brings extensive experience in finance and operational leadership from his previous roles, most recently as Chief Operating Officer at Lubrication Technologies Inc. 

Before that, he held various leadership positions in finance and risk management at G&K Services Inc., following earlier stints at Moyle Petroleum Co. and ComputerLand.

Stolt will continue his involvement with Christensen Farms by retaining a seat on its board of directors and remaining as the company’s representative on the Triumph Foods Board of Directors, offering guidance on strategic matters within the broader pork supply chain.

Christensen Farms, which operates across five Midwestern states, including Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, Illinois, and South Dakota, has nearly 1,000 employees and collaborates with 1,500 contract partners. 

The company manages significant operations, including three feed mills, 140,000 sows on 44 farms, and more than 350 nurseries and finishing sites. 

In 2024, Christensen Farms reported annual revenue of US$543 million.