
Smith Becomes Lamb Weston’s New President
Lamb Weston has a new President and CEO. Michael J. Smith, look over at the Idaho based potato products company on January 3rd. He succeeded Thomas P. Werner, who stepped down as CEO, but will stay on in an advisory role through the end of August to ensure a smooth transition.
Smith joined Lamb Weston in 2007 and has served in increasingly senior leadership roles during his nearly two decades career at the company. Prior to being named President and CEO, he served as Chief Operating Officer.
“We are pleased to have Mike Smith lead Lamb Weston through the next phase of the company’s growth,” said W.G. Jurgensen, Chairman of the Board of Lamb Weston. “Mike’s appointment represents the culmination of a thoughtful, years-long succession planning process by our Board, and we are confident he is the right leader to guide Lamb Weston forward. Mike has developed a deep understanding of all critical aspects of our business and commercial operations. He will also bring a fresh perspective to the role along with a blend of strategic thinking and a laser focus on capturing current market and operational opportunities, as well as a deep appreciation for our employees, customers and partners. Together with the strong team we have at Lamb Weston, the Board is confident that the company is well-positioned to drive profitability and deliver value for our shareholders over the long-term.”
I am honored to be appointed CEO and look forward to continuing to work alongside our talented team here at Lamb Weston,” Smith said. “Together, we will work to deliver profitable growth and build on Lamb Weston’s position as a global leader in frozen potato products. I am excited about the opportunities ahead for our company and believe that our unwavering focus on customer satisfaction, operational excellence and continued innovation will enable us to enhance value for our shareholders. Importantly, I also want to extend my gratitude to Tom for his commitment, leadership and passion for Lamb Weston and its employees.”
“It has been a privilege to lead Lamb Weston. I am proud of what we have accomplished, and I want to express my thanks to the many team members who, through their hard work and commitment to the company, have made our success possible,” Werner said,. Given all that we achieved together, and the journey yet ahead, the Board and I agreed it is the right time to enact our succession plans and allow a new leader to guide the company. I have worked closely with Mike and witnessed first-hand his values-based leadership style and steadfast focus on people as well as his thorough, enterprise-wide understanding of the business. I am confident that the Lamb Weston team is well-positioned for the future under his leadership.”
If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com
More From PNW Ag Network








