Wayne-Sanderson Farms Announces Recent Promotions of Key Executives

Wayne-Sanderson Farms Announces Key Executive Promotions

Wayne-Sanderson Farms, recognized as the third-largest poultry producer in the United States, has made headlines with significant leadership changes as they prepare for future growth. As of April 1, 2026, the company has elevated Aaron Leach to Chief Commercial and Supply Chain Officer, and Michael Crump to Chief Operations Officer.

This strategic move comes after years of exemplary service from both executives, who have been integral to the company's senior leadership team. Kevin McDaniel, President and CEO of Wayne-Sanderson Farms, expressed his confidence in their abilities: "These promotions acknowledge the substantial contributions that Aaron and Michael have made to our organization and reflect our trust in their leadership capabilities."

Aaron Leach: New Chief Commercial and Supply Chain Officer

In his new role, Aaron Leach will oversee essential functions within the company, including sales, marketing, research, development, and supply chain management. Aaron has a solid history with Wayne-Sanderson Farms; he joined the company in 2005 and has fulfilled numerous roles, showcasing his versatility and commitment to the organization. Before his current promotion, he served as the Senior Vice President of Supply Chain and General Manager of the Prepared Foods Business Unit. Notably, he led the successful integration of the Wayne Farms and Sanderson Farms merger, illustrating his strategic vision and leadership qualities.

Michael Crump: Stepping Up as Chief Operations Officer

Michael Crump’s new position will see him steering operations and live production at the company's extensive network of 24 facilities located across multiple states, including Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, and Texas. His previous tenure as Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Fresh Business Unit has equipped him with the operational expertise needed to excel in this new role. Crump joined Wayne-Sanderson Farms in 2014 and has since held pivotal positions that emphasize his capabilities in managing effective production systems and engineering functions within the company.

Additional Leadership Changes

Complementing these pivotal promotions, the company also announced the appointment of David Gadd as Senior Vice President of Retail Sales, Randy Meyers as Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales, and Craig Watkins as Vice President of Supply Chain. These appointments are designed to enhance the alignment of the company's sales capabilities and the overall execution of the supply chain. This expanded leadership team aims to propel Wayne-Sanderson Farms towards achieving exceptional value for its customers.

About Wayne-Sanderson Farms

Wayne-Sanderson Farms stands at the forefront of the poultry production industry, committed to upholding integrity, leadership, and responsible business practices. The company operates with a workforce of over 27,000 individuals and more than 2,000 farm partners, producing a diverse range of poultry products for various market segments. Their robust operations stretch across several states, where they maintain 24 fresh and further-processing facilities.

They are dedicated to providing high-quality poultry products under multiple brand names including SANDERSON FARMS®, COVINGTON FARMS®, and others, catering to retail, foodservice, restaurant, and institutional clients. Moreover, Wayne-Sanderson Farms proudly claims the title of the "Official Chicken of the Southeastern Conference (SEC)."

For additional information about Wayne-Sanderson Farms and its leadership team, visit their official website at WayneSandersonFarms.com or follow them on various social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.