National Pork Board CEO Bill Even will leave his position on May 1 after nine years and return to his family’s South Dakota farming operation, the organization announced Thursday.
Alex Wibholm, NPB’s senior vice president of operations, will serve as interim CEO upon Even’s departure while the board conducts a search for his replacement.
“I have seen firsthand Bill’s adaptability and steadfastness in uncertain times and his care for the people he serves,” NPB President Al Wulfekuhle said in a statement.
“Thanks to Bill’s dedication, good governance, principled stewardship and high-integrity strategic leadership, NPB is in an excellent position to transition smoothly to a new executive leader. We wish him and his family all the best as they return to South Dakota.”
Wulfekuhle noted that the board approved a new three-year plan in March for the checkoff-funded research and promotion organization, which is based in Clive, Iowa.
Even became CEO in June 2016. His leadership was critical to navigating the pork industry through the COVID-19 pandemic that halted meat processing capabilities and created a ripple of supply chain uncertainty, the release said.
Even said, “Every good farm operation plans for the next generation by building a strong team guided by a clear vision and by respecting those whose shoulders we stand on now. Many good stewards of the pork industry paved the way forward for decades before I joined NPB, and many more will come after me.”
For more news, go to www.Agri-Pulse.com.
