SMITHFIELD, VA. — Tim Zimmer has advanced to the role of chief marketing officer at Smithfield Foods, Inc., where previously he held the positions of senior vice-president of sales and business development and senior vice-president of retail and food service sales.
In his new role, Mr. Zimmer will lead the company’s brand strategy for Smithfield, Eckrich, Nathan’s Famous and other portfolio brands and will oversee domestic marketing activities across all channels for Smithfield’s packaged meats business.
“The position of chief marketing officer could not be more important at this point in our transformation into a leading consumer packaged goods and protein company,” said Kenneth M. Sullivan, president and chief executive officer of Smithfield Foods. “With an extensive background in the food industry and a solid understanding of our business, Tim Zimmer has a proven track record and is the right person to expand and enhance Smithfield’s marketing efforts.”
Prior to joining Smithfield Foods in 2011, Mr. Zimmer held sales and marketing roles at Nestle, Kraft Foods and Sara Lee Corp. He has a bachelor of business administration degree from the University of Texas-Arlington and a master of business administration degree with an emphasis on finance and business strategy from Wake Forest University.
“I am eager to step into this new position and continue to work with our innovative and talented teams,” Mr. Zimmer said. “I have a strong passion for supporting and growing our trusted and well-loved family of brands. This is an exciting time for Smithfield and I am ready for the opportunity to implement successful strategies that will further transform our brand portfolio.”
