Tyson Foods Inc., Springdale, Arkansas, has named Jeff Schomburger as its next president and CEO, effective Oct. 4, the company announced May 28.
Schomburger will succeed Donnie King following a transition period that begins in July. King, who has been with Tyson Foods for 43 years, will remain on the company’s board of directors.
Schomburger has served on the Tyson Foods board since 2016. During that time, he has held roles on several committees, including Compensation, Audit, and Strategy & Acquisition. He became chairman of the Strategy & Acquisition Committee in 2021 and has served as lead independent director since 2025.
Before joining Tyson Foods, Schomburger spent 35 years with Procter & Gamble. He retired in 2019 as the company’s global sales officer.
John H. Tyson, chairman of the Tyson Foods board, said Schomburger’s experience will support the company’s strategic priorities and customer-focused growth plans.
“I am honored to step into this leadership role and committed to building on the exceptional foundation and legacy of Tyson Foods,” Schomburger said in a statement. He said the company will focus on strengthening its brands, developing products and pursuing opportunities involving artificial intelligence.
King will work with Schomburger during the transition period in the coming months. Tyson Foods said King led the company through the COVID-19 pandemic and helped improve profitability, strengthen the balance sheet and advance operational efficiency initiatives during his tenure as CEO.
The company also recently announced the appointment of Wes Morris as chief operating officer, As COO, Morris will oversee the company’s business segments, including chicken, beef, pork, prepared foods and international.
Morris brings more than 20 years of experience with Tyson Foods, including prior leadership roles as president of the prepared foods and poultry businesses. His appointment reinforces the company’s commitment to operational excellence.
Morris begins his role on June 15. Devin Cole will be retiring from Tyson Foods.