SLEEPY EYE, MINN. – Pork producer Christensen Farms announced the promotion of Greg Howard to president and chief executive officer of the company on Sept. 5.

“It is a privilege to lead this incredible organization and work alongside all the dedicated and talented team members across the company,” Howard said. “Together, we will continue to build upon our strong foundation, uphold the visionary legacy of our founder, and drive our mission forward into the future.”

Christensen informed the public last year that Glenn Stolt, the outgoing president and CEO, intended to retire after 14 years with the company. Stolt succeeded Bob Christensen when he passed away in 2012.

“The promotion of Greg Howard demonstrates our commitment to strong leadership and continuous improvement. The combined experience and vision of Greg and the organization’s Leadership Team will keep the company grounded in principles that drove success over the past 50 years and propel Christensen Farms to great achievements in a dynamic industry,” said Mary Ann Christensen, owner and board chair. “I’d also like to take the opportunity to thank Glenn for his outstanding leadership over so many years. He provided the guidance needed under unanticipated circumstances, and his vision has been foundational in setting Christensen Farms up for long-term viability, sustainability and success.”

Stolt plans to stay as a director on the Christensen Farms board and represent Christensen Farms on the Triumph Foods board of directors.

“I am humbled yet grateful to have had the privilege to lead this organization over the past 12 years,” Stolt said. “As I transition to a sole governance role on the board, I look forward to serving Christensen Farms in a different capacity allowing me to remain connected to the company’s bright future while enjoying a new chapter in my life. I have full confidence in Greg’s ability to lead this organization forward with continued success.”

Along with the promotion of Howard, Christensen Farms announced that Shane Steffensen joined the producer as vice president and chief financial officer. Steffensen joined the company in May 2024 and brings expertise in financial management, operational leadership and strategic planning.

Before working at Christensen, Steffensen worked as chief operating officer for Lubrication Technologies Inc., a manufacturer and distributor of highly engineered lubricants and specialty chemicals.

Before that job, Steffensen worked 17 years with G&K Services Inc., a large business service organization, various leadership roles in accounting, finance, treasury and risk management. Prior to that, Steffensen also spent time at Moyle Petroleum Co. after starting his career with ComputerLand.