US poultry processor Wayne-Sanderson Farms has named COO Kevin McDaniel as its new chief executive.

McDaniel, who has spent more than six years at the business across two stints, will succeed CEO Clint Rivers in April.

Rivers has worked at the group for over a decade, joining the then Wayne Farms in 2012. He became its COO in 2014, president and CEO in 2017 and chairman in 2018.

Two years ago, Wayne Farms was combined with US peer Sanderson Farms. Alongside US agri-food giant Cargill, Continental Grain, the owner of Wayne Farms, acquired Sanderson and formed Wayne-Sanderson Farms. The group is the third-largest poultry processor in the US.

Rivers will step down on 31 March but remain as the company's executive chairman for the subsequent fiscal year.

In a statement, he said: “I am deeply grateful for the incredible journey I have had with Wayne-Sanderson Farms and it has been a privilege to work alongside such a talented and dedicated team. I am very proud of what we have accomplished together over the last 12 years. While I am retiring from my role as president and CEO, I am excited to continue serving on the board of directors and supporting the company’s continued success.”

Prior to joining Wayne-Sanderson Farms, McDaniel served as president at Aviagen North America and in senior roles at OK Foods and Pilgrim’s Pride.

He sits on the boards of the National Chicken Council and the US Poultry & Egg Association.

McDaniel said: “I am honoured that the board has selected me to succeed Clint as president and chief executive officer and want to thank him for his years of outstanding service to Wayne-Sanderson Farms.

“I am excited for the bright future ahead for our organisation, as we strive to achieve our vision of being the amazing poultry company, recognised as the partner of choice by our customers, co-workers, farmers and communities.”