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Mary Burich | November 21, 2017

People

Meet Curemaster Brian Hendrickson

When it comes to being the center of attention, Brian Hendrickson is not unusual in his tendency to shy away from the spotlight. When it comes to jobs, however, he is front and center.

Brian serves as curemaster for Hormel Foods, a prestigious position that has been held by a mere seven people in 50-plus years. In addition to playing an integral role in the brand, Brian oversees the production of the company’s top-of-the line Cure 81® hams, putting his name – and stamp of approval – on every one that goes to market.

So much for staying behind the scenes.

Brian has been with Hormel Foods 30 years, filling various roles in the operations area. He was named curemaster in 2008. Early in his career, Brian was an early production supervisor – and later, product manufacturing manager – on the Cure 81® bone-in spiral ham line, an accomplishment he believes contributed to his appointment as curemaster.

“It’s quite an honor to hold the title,” he says. “Somewhere in your career you would have had to have a significant impact on the brand.”