BRIDGEWATER, N,J. – Applegate Farms, L.L.C., a stand-alone subsidiary of Hormel Foods Corp., has tapped Steven J. Lykken as president of the company. Mr. Lykken served as the chief operating officer.
Mr. Lykken became Applegate’s c.o.o. in August 2015. He is a 24-year veteran of Hormel, most recently as the senior vice-president of supply chain at Jennie-O Turkey Store. He joined Hormel in 1992 as a Grocery Products sales representative.
Kerry Collins, c.e.o. emeritus of Applegate |
Applegate’s chief executive officer, Kerry Collins, plans to transition to the role of c.e.o. emeritus. Ms. Collins joined Applegate in 2011 as vice-president of finance. She eventually became chief financial and operating officer and was named c.e.o. in 2014. Ms. Collins was integral to the Hormel’s acquisition of Applegate in 2015.
“Both Kerry and Steve played key roles in ensuring a smooth transition of Applegate into a stand-alone subsidiary of Hormel Foods Corporation,” said Thomas R. Day, group vice-president of Refrigerated Foods at Hormel. “Kerry's leadership was essential in preserving the core of Applegate's vision of 'Changing the Meat We Eat,' and we look forward to her continuing counsel as c.e.o. emeritus. Steve brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience that will help Applegate continue to grow and expand in the natural and organic food space."