Simmons Prepared Foods announces retirement of President Joel Sappenfield

USA – Simmons Prepared Foods, a poultry production company headquartered in Siloam Springs, Arkansas, has confirmed that its president, Joel Sappenfield, is retiring. 

Sappenfield steps down after dedicating more than three decades to the poultry industry.

David Jackson, the company’s chief operating officer, acknowledged Sappenfield’s contributions, stating that he played a key role in steering the company through significant periods of expansion and development. 

“We wish him the best as he begins his retirement,” Jackson added.

Sappenfield joined Simmons in 2021 and has been responsible for overseeing its poultry division, which includes sales, marketing, and operational functions. 

Looking back on his tenure, Sappenfield emphasized the company’s commitment to its workforce and organizational culture. 

He said, “During my time at Simmons, I valued the mindset of pursuing success while prioritizing people. Todd Simmons, the company’s CEO, often emphasized growing without compromising our culture. I remain confident in the team’s ability to achieve continued success.”

Sappenfield’s career began in 1989 as a commodities broker shortly after earning a finance degree from Oklahoma State University. 

The following year, he joined Tyson Foods, where he held various sales and leadership positions over three decades. 

Before joining Simmons, Sappenfield was the president of Cobb-Vantress, a subsidiary of Tyson Foods specializing in poultry breeding.

Simmons Foods stated that an announcement about Sappenfield’s replacement would be made soon. 

The company continues to operate as a vertically integrated poultry producer, providing products from farm to fork.

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