Ocean Spray Cranberries names new president and CEO

US-based agricultural cooperative Ocean Spray Cranberries has appointed Tom Hayes as its new president and CEO.

Hayes was unanimously elected by the company’s board of directors.

Ocean Spray board of directors chairman Peter Dhillon said: “Ocean Spray is a unique company – one that asks its leaders to speak the language of consumers, farmers, grocers, bankers, manufacturers and employees all at once.

“In Tom Hayes, we believe we have found a leader who can speak to all of these audiences and continue the transformation of this cooperative.

“Tom’s expertise in supply chain management, his understanding of agriculture and the challenges faced by growers, and his decades of experience in the consumer packaged goods industry make him ideally suited to lead Ocean Spray into its second century. We are thrilled to welcome Tom on board.”

Hayes has three decades of experience in the food industry. He was previously associated with Tyson Foods, where he served as the company’s president and CEO and stepped down due to personal reasons.

During his association with Tyson Foods, Hayes introduced a new corporate brand, global growth strategy, and approach to sustainability.

He has also led consumer brands such as Tyson, Jimmy Dean, Hillshire Farm, and Ball Park.

Hayes said: “For everyone who grew up in New England, the Ocean Spray name is not just a global brand – it’s part of our culture. The heritage of the company and its 700 farmer-owners is one to be celebrated and shared across the world, and I want to ensure it is protected and positioned to grow for a long time to come.

“Joining Ocean Spray at such a pivotal moment, as it approaches its centennial, presents an extraordinary opportunity to look toward the future, tackle new challenges, and ensure that this cooperative will succeed for another 100 years.”