Wayne-Sanderson Farms, the third-largest poultry producer in the United States, is entering a significant phase of transition with the announcement of Kevin McDaniel as its new CEO. McDaniel, currently serving as Chief Operating Officer, will officially assume the role on April 1, 2025, following the retirement of Clint Rivers, who has led the company through pivotal changes in recent years.
As the organization prepares for this leadership transition, it reflects on the substantial impact that Rivers has had during his tenure. Under Rivers’ guidance, Wayne-Sanderson Farms has experienced transformative growth and strategic alignment, particularly following the merger of Wayne Farms and Sanderson Farms in 2022. This merger not only expanded the company’s operational capacity but also positioned it under a joint venture involving Cargill and Continental Grain, marking a significant milestone in its history.
Clint Rivers has been a central figure in the poultry industry since he joined Wayne Farms in 2012. His extensive experience and leadership have been instrumental in navigating the complexities of the market, ensuring that the company remained resilient and adaptable in a rapidly changing landscape. Rivers expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to work with a talented team, highlighting the collective achievements of Wayne-Sanderson Farms over the past 12 years. His decision to step down as CEO reflects a commitment to ensuring a smooth transition while continuing to contribute to the organization in his new role as executive chairman of the board during the 2026 fiscal year.
Kevin McDaniel’s appointment as CEO comes at a time when the poultry industry faces various challenges, including evolving consumer preferences, regulatory changes, and sustainability concerns. McDaniel brings a wealth of experience to the role, having joined Wayne-Sanderson Farms as senior director of Fresh Operations before progressing to vice president and general manager of the Fresh Business Unit. His promotion to COO in 2021 solidified his leadership capabilities, making him well-prepared to take on the responsibilities of CEO.
Prior to his tenure at Wayne-Sanderson Farms, McDaniel held a prominent position as president of Aviagen, a well-respected poultry breeding company. His three-decade career in the poultry industry has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of operations, production, and market dynamics. He has also held key positions at Pilgrim’s Pride and OK Foods, further broadening his expertise in poultry management. Currently, McDaniel serves on the boards of the National Chicken Council and the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association, where he actively contributes to shaping industry standards and best practices.
Upon his appointment, McDaniel expressed excitement about leading Wayne-Sanderson Farms into the future. He articulated a clear vision for the company, aiming to enhance its reputation as the partner of choice for customers, employees, farmers, and communities. His commitment to fostering strong relationships and prioritizing collaboration reflects a strategic focus on building a sustainable and successful organization.
The poultry industry is undergoing rapid changes, influenced by shifting consumer demands for transparency, animal welfare, and sustainability. McDaniel’s leadership will be essential in guiding Wayne-Sanderson Farms through these changes, positioning the company to meet evolving market expectations. He will need to focus on innovation, investing in new technologies and practices that promote efficiency and sustainability while maintaining high standards of product quality.
Sustainability has become a paramount concern for consumers and stakeholders in the poultry industry. As environmental awareness grows, companies are increasingly expected to adopt sustainable practices throughout their operations. McDaniel recognizes the importance of sustainability and its potential to drive competitive advantage. Under his leadership, Wayne-Sanderson Farms will likely prioritize initiatives aimed at reducing its environmental footprint, such as optimizing resource use, minimizing waste, and improving animal welfare practices.
Innovation will also play a critical role in the company’s strategy moving forward. As the industry evolves, there is a growing need for new approaches to production, processing, and distribution. McDaniel’s background in operations and management will enable him to identify opportunities for innovation, whether through advancements in technology, improvements in supply chain efficiency, or the development of new products that cater to changing consumer preferences.
As Wayne-Sanderson Farms continues to strengthen its market position, building strong relationships with customers will be a key focus for McDaniel. Understanding customer needs and preferences will be vital in creating products that resonate with consumers. This customer-centric approach will not only enhance brand loyalty but also drive growth and profitability for the company.
In addition to customer relationships, McDaniel recognizes the importance of collaboration with farmers and suppliers. Building strong partnerships within the supply chain is essential for ensuring a reliable and sustainable sourcing of poultry products. By fostering open communication and collaboration, Wayne-Sanderson Farms can enhance its operational efficiency and ensure a consistent supply of high-quality products.
The leadership transition comes at a crucial time as Wayne-Sanderson Farms prepares to leverage its strengths while addressing the challenges facing the poultry industry. The company’s strategic priorities will likely focus on enhancing operational efficiency, driving innovation, and expanding its market presence.
In the wake of the merger, Wayne-Sanderson Farms has the opportunity to capitalize on synergies between the two organizations. Integrating best practices, streamlining operations, and optimizing supply chains can create significant efficiencies that benefit the overall business. McDaniel’s experience in managing complex operations will be invaluable as the company seeks to realize the full potential of this merger.
Moreover, the poultry industry has seen a surge in demand for chicken products, driven by consumer preferences for healthier protein options. McDaniel will need to ensure that Wayne-Sanderson Farms is well-positioned to meet this growing demand by focusing on product quality, safety, and innovation. By continuously improving its offerings and responding to consumer trends, the company can capture a larger share of the market.
As McDaniel takes on the role of CEO, he will also need to prioritize talent development and employee engagement within the organization. A strong workforce is essential for driving success in the poultry industry, and McDaniel’s leadership will focus on creating a culture that values collaboration, innovation, and accountability. Investing in employee training and development will not only enhance operational performance but also foster a positive work environment that attracts and retains top talent.
Additionally, maintaining a strong commitment to animal welfare and ethical practices will be a core tenet of McDaniel’s leadership philosophy. As consumers become increasingly concerned about the treatment of animals in food production, companies in the poultry industry must prioritize transparency and ethical practices. By establishing and adhering to high standards of animal welfare, Wayne-Sanderson Farms can build trust with consumers and strengthen its brand reputation.
The future of Wayne-Sanderson Farms under Kevin McDaniel’s leadership is poised for growth and innovation. His extensive background in the poultry industry, combined with a clear vision for the company’s future, positions him well to navigate the challenges ahead. As the organization strives to enhance its market position, McDaniel’s leadership will be instrumental in driving operational excellence, fostering collaboration, and prioritizing sustainability.
As the poultry industry continues to evolve, Wayne-Sanderson Farms has the opportunity to lead by example, demonstrating a commitment to quality, sustainability, and ethical practices. With a strong focus on innovation and customer relationships, the company can position itself as a trusted partner in the poultry supply chain, meeting the demands of consumers and stakeholders alike.
In summary, the appointment of Kevin McDaniel as CEO of Wayne-Sanderson Farms marks a significant moment for the company. With Clint Rivers’ departure, McDaniel is tasked with leading the organization into a new era, characterized by strategic growth, innovation, and sustainability. His wealth of experience and commitment to excellence will be crucial in shaping the future of Wayne-Sanderson Farms, ensuring its continued success in the dynamic poultry industry. As the company embraces this transition, it remains focused on achieving its vision of being recognized as the partner of choice in the poultry sector, committed to quality, sustainability, and strong community relationships.
