The USC Marshall School of Business has named Jeffrey Hendrix, senior executive at Bimbo Bakeries USA, as its Food Industry Executive of the Year for the Food Industry Management Program’s 2026 cohort.
USC has recognized an exceptional food industry leader annually for nearly six decades. The honor goes to executives whose careers reflect strategic leadership, innovation and commitment to developing people. Hendrix’s selection recognizes both his professional achievements and his dedication to education – values shared by USC, the FIM Program and the Western Association of Food Chains.
Hendrix has held senior leadership roles across the consumer-packaged goods industry, guiding organizations through growth and change. He is known for his approach to strategy, talent development and long-term value creation, consistently investing in building teams and cultivating future leaders.
“Education has the power to change the trajectory of a career, a company and an industry,” Hendrix said. “Programs like FIM play a critical role in preparing leaders not just for today’s challenges, but for what’s next.”
Leadership philosophy
Hendrix’s leadership philosophy aligns closely with the FIM Program’s mission of preparing high-potential leaders for senior roles through rigorous academics, real-world application and exposure to innovative thinking across the food industry. His career serves as an example for students navigating leadership in a competitive environment.
The award will be presented during the FIM Cohort of 2026 graduation on April 29 at the USC campus. The event brings together industry executives, alumni, donors and faculty to celebrate graduating students and the future of the food industry.
About the FIM Program
Now in its 67th year, the Food Industry Management Program at USC Marshall School of Business is a leadership development experience that transforms high-potential employees into executives. Each year, 30-35 participants from a range of food industry companies are selected for the semester-long program based on demonstrated management achievement and significant potential for future leadership advancement.
The program is designed for strong performers ready to grow from transactional leadership to strategic, transformative leadership that shapes culture and drives long-term organizational impact. Research shows that 52 percent of FIM graduates over the past 10 years have advanced into executive or senior leadership roles, are twice as likely to be promoted and remain with their organizations an average of seven years longer than non-graduates.
The 16-week, on-campus program is taught by USC Marshall’s faculty. Every participant receives a full tuition scholarship through the Western Association of Food Chains (WAFC).
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