Jeffrey M. Ettinger, President and CEO of Hormel Foods, was honored with a Stevie Award for Executive of the Year Monday evening during the Annual American Business Awards ceremony held in New York City.

Ettinger has worked for Hormel Foods since 1989. During his career with the company, he has served as a senior attorney and the Hormel chili product manager and treasurer. In 2004, he was appointed president. He later moved on in 2006 to the CEO role. His current position includes responsibilities related to the overseeing of the company’s multinational operations and functions.

During his time as CEO, Ettinger has grown the company through strategic acquisitions and continued focus on innovation, according to a Stevie Awards press release.

The American Business Awards recognize top performance in American businesses. Over 500 of the country’s business leaders were present at Monday evening’s awards ceremony. Representatives included those involved with corporations, non-profits, government agencies and major public companies.