"Kerry is an excellent selection for this role," said Steven Bresky, president and CEO of Seaboard Corp. "His experience, passion, customer focus and strategic leadership will drive the Butterball organization to continued success."

Doughty joined Butterball in 2007 as executive vice president of sales, marketing and innovation and has proven himself as a key leader within the company and poultry industry. In his role as executive vice president, Doughty held responsibility for Butterball's domestic and international retail and foodservice customer relationships, oversaw all marketing and public relations initiatives, and led new product and innovation development. Prior to his seven years with Butterball, Doughty served for more than 25 years in customer service, sales and brand marketing roles of increasing responsibility, including leadership positions with large consumer brands such as Perdue Farms, Hardee's and Wilson Foods.

"I'm honored to serve as Butterball's next president and CEO," said Doughty. "My predecessor was extremely successful in establishing operational efficiencies and a solid, integrated business plan that I truly respect and plan to maintain. Moving forward, I hope to build on that foundation and position our innovation and customer needs at the forefront of Butterball's business initiatives."

Responsibilities associated with the executive vice president position will be assigned in short order to ensure a smooth and seamless transition, per a company release.