CINCINNATI — John N. Simons has been named president, chief executive officer and a board member of AdvancePierre Foods, a manufacturer and marketer of value-added proteins and sandwich products.

“John’s long track record of fostering high-performing, customer-focused and innovative cultures, through building world-class organizational capabilities, and driving growth across a number of enterprises make him the right leader for AdvancePierre Foods at this point in its evolution,” said Dean Hollis, chairman of the board. “In his new role as president and chief executive officer, John will be responsible for leading AdvancePierre in the next phase of its journey to become the premier value-added protein and sandwich producer in the marketplace.”

Mr. Simons brings over 20 years of food, agribusiness and consumer products experience to his new role. Most recently he founded Fir Hill Ventures, an advisory firm that helped beef producers develop profitable international growth strategies. In the past, he has been president and c.e.o. of Swift & Company, Inc., and president and chief operating officer of several divisions within ConAgra Foods, Inc.