Tyson's ex-CEO, Hayes, in new post

He now is leading cranberry-juice giant

Tom Hayes, formerly of Tyson Foods, has become the president and chief executive officer of Ocean Spray Cranberries Inc.

Hayes was Tyson's president and CEO for almost two years, where he helped introduce a new corporate brand, global growth strategy and approach to sustainability.

He is joining Ocean Spray, the world's largest producer of cranberry juice, as a way to get closer to his roots.

"For everyone who grew up in New England, the Ocean Spray name is not just a global brand, it's part of our culture," Hayes said in a statement. "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."

The cranberry juice cooperative has more than 2,000 employees, 20 processing facilities and generates about $2 billion in revenue each year. It was founded in Massachusetts in 1930.

Hayes, raised in New Hampshire, will be taking the helm of Ocean Spray as it approaches its centennial.

Before Tyson, he had leadership roles at Hillshire Brands and Sara Lee, as well as US Foods, ConAgra and Kraft. Hayes has a master's degree from Northwestern University.

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