SALISBURY, MD. – Fourth-generation, family-owned protein processor Perdue Farms announced on Feb. 27 that Todd Tillemans would work as the new chief commercial officer (CCO). 

Tillemans will focus on the company’s growth strategies, which include overseeing the marketing and sales of Perdue’s legacy brands and products while driving forward new innovations.

“Todd’s extensive experience in the consumer-packaged goods industry combined with his deep knowledge of and obsession with our consumers will help Perdue keep delivering the quality, great tasting products they expect, while also introducing exciting new innovations,” said Kevin McAdams, chief executive officer of Perdue Farms. “Todd also brings a laser-focus on excellent customer service that will be critical to deepening existing relationships with our retailers and unlocking more ways to partner as we ultimately look to better serve consumers, together.”

Tillemans previously worked as the CEO of Cynosure, a leading developer and manufacturer of light-based aesthetic and medical treatment systems. Before that, he served as the US president of The Hershey Co.

Prior to Hershey, he led multiple businesses across global markets for Unilever and, before that, held positions at General Mills.

“I’m thrilled to join the Perdue Farms team and I look forward to all that we can accomplish in partnership with our customers, on behalf of our consumers,” Tillemans said. “We have an incredible opportunity to keep accelerating growth by staying true to the company’s legacy of responsible food and agriculture while tapping even further into our associates’ spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation.”

Tillemans is an alumnus of the University of Minnesota and received his MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. He also served in the US Marine Corps.