Longtime Fieldale Farms Corp. President Tom Hensley is stepping down after 50 years with the company.
Hensley, retiring at the end of the year, will be succeeded by John Wright, the company’s chief operating officer, the Baldwin-based poultry company said in a press release Monday, Oct. 19.
Hensley’s contributions to Fieldale “are immeasurable,” said Gus Arrendale III, CEO and board chairman. “His dedication and leadership have helped build the strong company we are today. We are deeply grateful for everything he has accomplished and the legacy he leaves for future generations.”
Wright will become president on Jan. 1. He will join Fieldale’s board of directors on Dec. 9 and work closely with Hensley “to ensure a smooth leadership transition,” the release says.
“John’s extensive experience, knowledge of our operations and commitment to Fieldale make him exceptionally well suited to lead the company into its next chapter,” Arrendale said.
“Having spent more than three decades with Fieldale, he understands our people, our customers and the values that have made this company successful. We have tremendous confidence in his leadership and in Fieldale’s future.”
Wright said of the promotion: “I’m honored by the Board’s confidence and deeply grateful to Tom Hensley for his many years of leadership and mentorship. Tom built a strong foundation at Fieldale, and I look forward to building on it with our outstanding team.”
