As Hilmar Cheese Company prepares to welcome only its third CEO in 41 years, the organization looks forward Greg Schlafer’s leadership, marked by continued dedication to innovation and quality.
Hilmar Cheese Company, a name synonymous with excellence in the global cheese manufacturing industry and a leading supplier of whey ingredients, is poised for a new chapter. On July 1, 2025, Greg Schlafer will step into the role of president & CEO, bringing with him a wealth of experience and an impressive track record of leadership in the dairy sector.
Schlafer’s Background
Before his appointment at Hilmar, Schlafer served as the president & CEO of Foremost Farms USA for nearly six years, a position that involved steering the operational and strategic direction for one of the foremost suppliers of cheese and dairy ingredients.
His educational credentials come with an MBA from UCLA’s Anderson School of Management and an undergraduate degree from the University of Minnesota. Schlafer’s professional journey includes notable roles such as vice president of food group sales & marketing at J.R. Simplot Company, president of Lamb Weston at ConAgra Foods, Inc., and vice president & general manager at General Mills’ Bakeries & Foodservice Division.
A Thorough Selection Process
Jim Ahlem, chairman of the board, commented, “The board spent a great deal of time interviewing and vetting many qualified candidates for this position, and Greg stood out among them. He brings extensive experience in the cheese and ingredients markets, working with dairy farm families, and an impressive leadership style that is a good fit for the Hilmar culture.”
Building on a Legacy
The announcement follows the news that current CEO David Ahlem will step down after almost a decade leading the company and a total of 22 years with Hilmar Cheese Company. His lasting impact on the company will continue as he transitions to a board adviser role.
Schlafer expressed his admiration for his predecessor, saying, “David’s stewardship of the company these past ten years has been a true inspiration and I’m delighted to continue the journey to achieve Hilmar’s vision.”
A Vision for the Future
Schlafer’s excitement for the new role was palpable. “I have long admired Hilmar Cheese Company, a market leader in the cheese and ingredients space, for their vision, growth and sharp focus on technology and innovation. I’m eager to build upon our great relationships with employees, owners, dairy farmers and customers,” he shared.
As Hilmar Cheese Company prepares to welcome only its third CEO in 41 years, the organization looks forward Greg Schlafer’s leadership, marked by continued dedication to innovation and quality.
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