Chip Walker Named New PRO*ACT CEO and President
MONTEREY, CA - A new leader is taking the reins at PRO*ACT, adding 25 years of experience in foodservice distribution to its helm. H.O. “Chip” Walker III has been named the incoming President and CEO, effective September 1, 2020.
“I’ve long admired the companies, people, and passion that have given PRO*ACT its great reputation and have been impressed with the deliberate steps it takes to bring value to its customers, members, suppliers, and communities,” shared Walker.
Chip and his wife will be moving from their home in Georgia to the Monterey Peninsula, where he starts his tenure “with sleeves rolled up—ready to join a team in an industry I love,” according to a press release.
The new leader has worked all sides of the supply chain, most recently having served as CEO of Frosty Acres for six years. While there, the foodservice cooperative for broad-line distributors saw accelerated growth, including double-digit sales growth, expanded membership, and solidified supplier relationships.
“After an exhaustive six-month search that included input from partners across our supply chain, we’re excited to hire someone uniquely situated to exceed the experience, qualities, and vision that we have been seeking,” said Greg Rowe, Chief Executive Officer of Hardie’s, a member of the PRO*ACT Office of the Chairman.
Jorge Vazquez, Freedom Fresh President and PRO*ACT Office of the Chairman member, said, “This process started with us determined to find someone who had the right tools, experience, and drive to lead PRO*ACT during a challenging time for our industry, and the people we serve. Chip exemplifies those qualities—he is someone who sees these challenges as opportunities.”
While Walker spent years expanding protein sales for Sanderson Farms, and Hillshire Brands before Frosty Acres, his roots rest in agriculture. The company noted that he grew up in rural Mississippi, learning the importance of hard work alongside his grandfather on the family farm.
We are excited to see what this new step in such a deep-rooted story means both for PRO*ACT and its new leader.
