Smithfield Foods Inc. announced that Dennis Treacy, executive vice president and chief sustainability officer, intends to retire from the company, effective Dec. 31, 2016.

Until his retirement, Treacy will serve full time as president of the Smithfield Foundation, the nonprofit organization that acts as the philanthropic wing of Smithfield.

Keira Lombardo, currently senior vice president of corporate affairs, will assume all of Treacy's responsibilities in the areas of sustainability, government affairs, communications and "people," on Jan. 1, 2016.

"Dennis has been an invaluable member of the Smithfield family for the past 14 years and his efforts have enabled Smithfield to set the standard for sustainability in our industry," Smithfield chief executive officer C. Larry Pope said. "I want to thank Dennis for his many contributions and dedication to Smithfield, as well as his friendship. The Smithfield family congratulates him on his role with the Smithfield Foundation and wishes him all the best in his retirement."

Stewart Leeth, currently vice president of regulatory affairs and sustainability for the company, will assume the role of chief sustainability officer on Jan. 1, 2016. Leeth joined Smithfield Foods in 2008 and, prior to assuming his current role, held the position of assistant vice president for environmental and corporate affairs and senior counsel.

In addition to serving as president of the Smithfield Foundation, Treacy will continue to perform select government affairs and sustainability duties, including his work as a member of the company's public affairs and sustainability committee. He will also represent Smithfield with several external organizations and associations throughout 2016.