Guntersville, AL — After an illustrious 45-year career in the poultry industry, John Pittard has officially retired as CEO of AlaTrade. While stepping away from day-to-day operations, Pittard will remain an integral part of the company as a member of the Board of Directors. His leadership and dedication have left a lasting impact on AlaTrade, the industry, and the many colleagues and employees he has mentored throughout the years.
To honor Pittard’s retirement, a celebration was recently held at SouthWater Club House in Guntersville, Alabama, where family, friends, and industry peers gathered to reflect on his contributions and legacy. Key members of AlaTrade leadership spoke, highlighting Pittard’s steady guidance, industry expertise, and commitment to building AlaTrade into the company it is today. Under Pittard’s leadership, AlaTrade has grown into a leading further processing company that processes over seven million pounds of poultry products each week. Since joining the company in 2006 as President and later taking on the role of CEO, his influence has shaped both the company’s operations and its reputation within the poultry industry.
Pittard looks forward to retirement on his cattle farm, tackling long-awaited projects, and indulging in as much golf, hunting, and fishing as he pleases. Reflecting on his retirement, Pittard shared, “Whether it’s doing these or other activities, the best part will be spending more time with Denise,” his wife of more than 30 years. Together, they have 10 grandchildren, and he is thrilled at the prospect of more time with them. John continued, “I do plan to stay connected to poultry. I have a daughter that works for a poultry company, and a son-in-law that is a poultry farmer and a service technician in the broiler industry. And Phoebe is pursuing a poultry degree at Auburn! Along with board activities with AlaTrade, I hope to also stay connected through the AP&EA.”
As AlaTrade looks to the future following the retirement of Pittard, the company is proud to announce that Josh Whitley will step into the dual role of CEO and President. Whitley was appointed President in early 2024, with Pittard remaining as CEO to ensure a smooth transition. Now, armed with extensive industry experience and a clear vision for the future of AlaTrade, Whitley will officially take the reins over the company.
“For those of you that don’t know me, my name is Josh Whitley, and I have the extremely challenging privilege of following John Pittard as the President and CEO of AlaTrade Foods,” Whitley said at the retirement celebration. “John has built an amazing team at AlaTrade Foods. He’s built an incredible company. But I think the thing that stands out most is the brand and the reputation. When people think about AlaTrade Foods, they know it as John Pittard. He’s the guy behind making AlaTrade Foods what it is, and we want nothing more than to carry that forward. If I can speak for the entire AlaTrade team here, our number one goal is to make you proud—to make AlaTrade bigger and better than it is today.”
Bringing over 21 years of experience in the food processing industry, Whitley has served in numerous leadership roles, from operations to supply chain management. His commitment to financial stability, innovation, and customer satisfaction aligns with AlaTrade’s mission, ensuring a strong future for the company and its employee-owners.
Embarking on this new chapter, AlaTrade remains dedicated to upholding the values and legacy established under Pittard’s leadership while embracing the growth and advancements Whitley brings.