Tyson Names Rex Holstein VP, Commodity Purchasing

Rex Holstein has been promoted to VP, commodity purchasing at Springdale, Ark.-based Tyson Foods, succeeding Clark Irwin, who will retire in mid-January after 36 years with the company.

Beginning his career with Tyson Foods in 1994, Holstein has held roles in a variety of areas, including human resources, warehousing and accounting. In his new position, he will lead the commodity purchasing team in the procurement and risk management of various inputs, among them feed ingredients, energy and cooking oil.

"I know he’ll do a great job guiding the team in their efforts to continuously improve our purchasing of commodities and increasing efficiencies," said Tyson Foods President of Poultry Noel White.

Holstein is on the advisory boards of the Soy & Grain Trade Summit and the northwest Arkansas area chapter of Children of Arkansas Loved for a Lifetime, and was chairman of the board for the Arkansas Industrial Traffic Association.

Irwin began his career with Tyson Foods in 1978 and held executive roles in operations, warehousing, sistribution and commodity purchasing. He also managed the company's Mexican Original business for some years.

"Clark's leadership has been key to the growth and success of the Mexican Original business," noted White.

Tyson Foods is one of the world's largest producers of chicken, beef, pork and prepared foods that include such brands as Tyson, Jimmy Dean, Hillshire Farm, Sara Lee frozen bakery, Ball Park, Wright, Aidells and State Fair.