Retired Tyson Foods Executive Joins Grandslam Performance

Ken Kimbro, previously an executive vice president and chief human resources officer for Tyson Foods Inc., has been hired by Fayetteville leadership consulting firm Grandslam Performance Associates, the company announced Wednesday.

Kimbro will help lead expansion of the company’s executive development program.

“We are honored and excited to have Ken join our team,” Dr. Adam Arroyos, founder and CEO of GPA, said. “Ken brings a practical and well-rounded approach for developing executives that aligns well with the guiding principles of our executive development program and to the mission of our firm.”

Kimbro, who reported directly to CEO Donnie Smith and led the human resources functions at Tyson Foods since 2001, transitioned into retirement following the company’s $8.5 billion acquisition last year of Hillshire Brands, the largest deal in the history of the meat industry. He was replaced by Mary Oleksiuk, former chief HR officer for Hillshire Brands

“I’ve seen firsthand that executives who engage personal coaches, a peer support network and opportunities to give back are more capable of being high performers and effective leaders,” Kimbro said. “There is a significant need for GPA’s blended approach and I look forward to helping expand the reach and availability of our proven program.”