Shelly Stayer named Johnsonville chairwoman

Husband Ralph C. Stayer had been in role since 1995

Sheboygan Falls-based Johnsonville LLC has named Shelly Stayer as chairwoman of the company’s board of directors, the third person to hold the position.

Stayer replaces her husband, Ralph C. Stayer, who had been chair of the company since 1995.

Ralph Stayer said he had confidence in his wife’s ability to lead the board moving forward.

“Shelly has been my confidant and advisor for the last 25 years, making an impact at Johnsonville in many capacities – from innovation and board leadership, to member and product development, and making our work environment an exciting and attractive place to learn and grow,”  said Stayer, who will remain a member of the company’s board.

Shelly Stayer’s work at Johnsonville has included leading multi-year marketing efforts with the Tailgate Village at Lambeau Field and with the Milwaukee Brewers racing sausages. She also led new product introductions including a brand mustard line and an indoor sausage grill.

“As Johnsonville enters its 75th year of business, Ralph and I are so very proud of all that our members – past and present – have given to this wonderful organization,” Shelly Stayer said. “Now that we look to the next 75 years, maintaining our unique culture and family-owned status will continue to be important. I’m honored to serve in this capacity.”

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Arthur Thomas
Arthur covers banking and finance and the economy at BizTimes while also leading special projects as an associate editor. He also spent five years covering manufacturing at BizTimes. He previously was managing editor at The Waukesha Freeman. He is a graduate of Carroll University and did graduate coursework at Marquette. A native of southeastern Wisconsin, he is also a nationally certified gymnastics judge and enjoys golf on the weekends.