SPRINGDALE, ARK. — Dean Banks has been named president of Tyson Foods, Inc., effective Dec. 20. Noel White, president and chief executive officer, will continue as c.e.o.

Mr. Banks has served on the Tyson Foods board as an independent director for two years. In his new role, he will oversee the company’s business segments and remain a member of the Tyson Foods board as a non-independent director.

Mr. Banks joins Tyson Foods from X, the research and development arm of Alphabet Inc., formerly known as Google [x], where he was a project lead and member of the leadership team since 2016. He previously led Vergent Bioscience, a biotechnology company that develops molecular imaging probes for life science research and development. Mr. Banks also was managing partner of SEED Ventures, a group that invests in and develops early-stage health care technologies.

“At a time of unprecedented change in the protein industry, we’re focused on capitalizing on our diversified business model and innovation to execute our growth strategy,” Mr. White said. “As we increasingly integrate advanced technologies into our operations, we’re pleased to add a leader of Dean’s caliber to our leadership team. From his service on the Tyson Foods board, Dean has developed a keen understanding of our business to go with his deep knowledge of the technologies and innovations that can help unlock opportunities now and in the future. I look forward to working closely with Dean as we drive Tyson Foods’ global growth in the future.”