SILOAM SPRINGS, ARK. — Simmons Prepared Foods announced that its president, Joel Sappenfield, will be retiring after more than 30 years serving the poultry industry.
“Throughout his tenure, Joel led Simmons through key growth and strategic milestones, positioning the company for continued success in a competitive market,” said David Jackson, chief operating officer of Simmons Foods. “We wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement.”
Sappenfield joined Simmons in 2021, where he has since overseen the poultry business, including sales, marketing and operations.
“During my time at Simmons, I always appreciated our attitude of we’re going to win, and we’re going to do whatever it takes to win, but we’re going to do it the right way by taking care of our people first,” Sappenfield said. “Todd Simmons (chief executive officer of Simmons Foods) has said many times that we want to grow, but we never want to outgrow our culture. I have full confidence in them and the people of Simmons and continue to believe in the mindset that will guarantee our success for years to come.”
Sappenfield’s career began in 1989, when he worked as a commodities broker for about one year after graduating from Oklahoma State University with a bachelor’s degree in finance. He joined Tyson Foods Inc. in 1990 and worked in various sales and leadership positions. Before joining Simmons, he served as president of Cobb-Vantress, a subsidiary of Tyson Foods specializing in poultry breeding.