In a significant leadership shift, Tyson Foods has appointed Devin Cole, previously leading its poultry division, as the new COO. This announcement coincides with the company’s decision to part ways with its supply-chain chief due to a breach of the company’s code of conduct.
In his new role, Cole will oversee various divisions, including poultry, beef, pork, prepared foods, and international operations.
This key appointment was revealed on September 2, in tandem with the announcement of Brady Stewart’s exit, who previously served as chief supply chain officer. Stewart’s departure stems from “certain actions” that violated Tyson Foods’ code of conduct.
In February, both Cole and Stewart were promoted to elevated roles within the organization. During this time, Cole became the group president of poultry, replacing Wes Morris.
Stewart, on the other hand, saw his responsibilities expand to include overseeing the prepared foods segment while continuing as group president of beef, pork, and chief supply chain officer.
Post-Stewart’s exit, Cole will report directly to Donnie King, the president and CEO of Tyson Foods. Furthermore, key functions concerning supply chain, food safety, health and safety, environmental aspects, and transportation will now report directly to King.
This transition marks the first time since 2021 that Tyson Foods has appointed a COO, following King’s previous move from COO to CEO.
King commented on the changes, stating: “We have strong momentum as we head into our new fiscal year, and we remain committed to executing our long-term strategy and operating the company guided by our culture and core values. I am confident that under Devin’s leadership our business will continue to thrive.”
Tyson Foods will provide further updates regarding leadership and organizational changes prior to the start of its fiscal year 2026 on September 28.
In June, John R. Tyson, the former CFO, left the company following a suspension due to a driving while intoxicated incident.
Tyson initially pleaded not guilty but later admitted to the charge. Despite this, he was appointed as a director in May.
In its financial results for the third quarter ended June 28, Tyson Foods reported sales of $13.88 billion, reflecting a 4% increase compared to the previous year. However, the company saw a 23.8% decline in operating income, dropping to $260 million. This decline was primarily affected by a goodwill impairment charge of $343 million, resulting in a substantial 64.8% decrease in net income, which fell from $196 million to $69 million in the same quarter last year.
For the first nine months of 2025, Tyson Foods’ total sales reached $40.58 billion, representing a 2.1% increase from the previous year. While operating income rose by 6.3% to $940 million, net income experienced a slight decrease of 2%, settling at $449 million.
