Hormel Foods has appointed Donald Monk as the company’s first Chief Technology Officer, creating a new executive role focused on enterprise technology, digital and data strategy.
The move was announced on 24 February 2026. Monk will assume the position on 23 March.
The newly created role makes Monk the senior-most technology leader at Hormel Foods Corporation. He will oversee enterprise technology alignment, digital capability development and long-term data strategy to support growth.
The company said the appointment reflects its commitment to modernising technology and strengthening digital infrastructure across its global operations.
Hormel Foods generates approximately $12 billion in annual revenue and operates in more than 80 countries. Its portfolio includes major grocery brands such as SPAM, SKIPPY and PLANTERS, all widely distributed across international supermarket networks.
Monk brings more than 35 years of global technology leadership experience. He previously spent 33 years at General Mills, where he ultimately served as chief information officer, leading global technology strategy and operations.
He later joined Cargill, most recently serving as senior vice president of strategy, governance and transformation within its digital technology and data organisation.
Throughout his career, Monk has led enterprise technology transformations, digital platform upgrades and global data strategy initiatives.
Hormel’s decision to establish a dedicated Chief Technology Officer role signals a structural shift in how large FMCG manufacturers are organising around AI, analytics, automation and integrated digital systems.
Why It Matters
Technology leadership is becoming central within global food manufacturers as supply chains digitise and data integration with retail partners increases.
For supermarkets and FMCG buyers, stronger digital infrastructure at supplier level can influence forecasting accuracy, data transparency, category analytics and operational efficiency.
The creation of this role at Hormel Foods reflects broader industry momentum toward enterprise-wide digital alignment across production, logistics and commercial systems.
Hormel did not announce additional structural changes alongside the appointment.
Editor’s Note: Based on official company announcement from Hormel Foods Corporation, 24 February 2026.
