Click through for a recap of NCC members recently in the news, including charitable donations, company announcements, milestones and community events. This week’s recap includes JBT Marel, Perdue Specialty Meats, Foster Farms, Simmons Foods and Wayne-Sanderson Farms.
JBT Marel unveils 2024 Sustainability Report
JBT Marel Corporation, a global leader in food and beverage technology solutions, this week released its 2024 Sustainability Report, “Shaping the Future of Food Together.” The report highlights how the company creates meaningful impact for customers, employees, communities, and the wider food ecosystem. “Sustainability is more than a goal—it’s a responsibility,” said Brian Deck, Chief Executive Officer. “Every step we take today defines the kind of company we will be tomorrow. Together, JBT Marel’s diverse solutions, enhanced operational scale, and deep application, service, and digital expertise expand our ability to support customers and the global food system.”
Perdue Specialty Meats appoints vice president and general manager
Perdue Specialty Meats has appointed Jason Henshaw as VP and General Manager, overseeing brands such as Niman Ranch, Coleman All Natural Meats, and Perdue Premium Meat Co. Henshaw brings over 20 years of leadership experience in consumer-packaged goods, agriculture, and food industries, most recently serving as founder and CEO of Zeal Creamery. In his new role, he will lead strategy, operations, and growth while upholding the company’s commitments to sustainability, humane animal care, and product quality.
Foster Farms Taps Poultry Veteran for Executive Post
Foster Farms, California’s largest poultry processor, has appointed Riz Akbar as chief commercial officer to support its brand growth strategy. Akbar brings over 20 years of experience in brand development and commercial strategy, having previously led commerce and digital efforts at Pilgrim’s Pride and held leadership roles at major companies like Kraft Foods and Mondelez. He will report directly to CEO Jayson Penn, who emphasized that expanding the company’s brand is a key corporate priority.
Simmons Foods Announces $500,000 Donation to Flint Hills Technical College
The funds will support the construction of the new Advanced Industry Education Center, a facility designed to expand and integrate programs in advanced manufacturing, industrial engineering, automation, and robotics, and to strengthen them with brand-new equipment and technology. This building will house the Simmons Industrial Engineering Lab where Simmons Team Members will be involved in various aspects, including mock interviews of all students in the program. “This gift represents our long-standing commitment to education,” said Mark Simmons.
Wayne-Sanderson gives $250K to poultry program
This support will significantly elevate educational momentum and opportunities for students. The collaboration demonstrates the power of industry-academic partnerships in shaping the future workforce. At the heart of this partnership is Dr. Linda Purvis, associate professor of biology and poultry science. “This gift is transformational for our students and community. I am incredibly thankful for Wayne-Sanderson’s commitment to providing top-notch education for poultry science students at UNG,” Purvis said. “This will cement poultry science on this campus for years to come while providing top-of-the-line education and practical industry applications to prepare our students for the workforce.”
