DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. — The Hillshire Brands Company (NYSE: HSH) announced that Dennis (Denny) Belcastro will become vice president, government and industry affairs. Belcastro will develop and implement the company’s engagement strategy with federal, state and local elected officials, regulatory agencies and key policymakers in addition to managing strategic customer and industry events. He will join the company on July 30, 2012.
“Denny’s ability to facilitate relationships with all levels of government and across the industry will help Hillshire Brands navigate and respond to the regulatory environment that surrounds modern food production,” said Sean Connolly, chief executive officer, Hillshire Brands. “We are pleased to have him bring his knowledge of the industry and food business acumen to Hillshire Brands.”
Most recently, Belcastro was executive vice president for industry affairs and collaboration at the Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA). At GMA, he led the Industry Affairs Council, one of three key industry guidance and governance committees that represent more than 300 leading food, beverage and consumer product companies.
Belcastro, with more than 35 years of experience, worked at Kraft Foods North America, where he served first as vice president, central area sales direct store delivery business and later as vice president, industry affairs and customer development. Prior to his work at Kraft, Belcastro was at Nabisco Inc. as vice president, customer development and industry relations. He began his career at Standards Brands, Inc.
Belcastro received his bachelor’s degree in Communication from Edinboro University and his Executive Master of Science in Business Organization and Communication from Northwestern University.
About Hillshire Brands Company
Hillshire Brands Company (NYSE: HSH) is the nation’s leader in meat-centric food solutions for the retail and foodservice markets. The company generates nearly $4 billion in annual sales and has approximately 8,500 employees. Hillshire Brands’ portfolio includes iconic brands such as Jimmy Dean, Ball Park, Hillshire Farm, State Fair, Sara Lee frozen bakery and Chef Pierre pies, as well as artisanal brands Aidells and Gallo Salame. The company, formerly known as Sara Lee Corporation, began trading under the “HSH” ticker symbol on June 29, 2012, following the successful spinoff of its international coffee and tea business. For more information on the company, please visit www.hillshirebrands.com.
Source: Hillshire Brands Company