USA – Wayne-Sanderson Farms, the third-largest poultry producer in the U.S., has announced that its chief operating officer, Kevin McDaniel, will assume the role of CEO next year. 

McDaniel will officially take over leadership of the company on April 1, 2025, following the retirement of current CEO Clint Rivers.

Rivers, who has led the company through significant milestones, including the merger of Wayne Farms and Sanderson Farms in 2022, will transition into the role of executive chairman of the board for the 2026 fiscal year.

In a statement, Rivers expressed confidence in his successor, stating, “Having worked closely with Kevin over the last several years, I believe he is the right person to lead Wayne-Sanderson Farms in the years ahead. His extensive experience and leadership make him well-suited for this role, and I look forward to supporting him during this transition.”

McDaniel, who has held various positions within the company, joined Wayne-Sanderson Farms as senior director of Fresh Operations. 

He later became vice president and general manager of the Fresh Business Unit before being named COO in 2021. 

His career spans over 30 years in the poultry industry, including leadership roles at Aviagen, Pilgrim’s Pride, and OK Foods.

McDaniel also holds positions on the boards of the National Chicken Council and the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association. 

He expressed optimism about the company’s future, stating, “I am eager for the opportunities ahead as we continue to grow and work towards becoming the poultry company of choice for our partners, employees, farmers, and the communities we serve.”

Rivers’ departure marks the end of his tenure, during which he oversaw the company’s integration following its 2022 acquisition by a joint venture between Cargill and Continental Grain. 

Rivers has been with Wayne Farms since 2012, serving as CEO before the merger with Sanderson Farms.

Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World HERE