Washington, Mo.-based meat processor Frick’s Quality Meats has named Ellory Frick Brunkhorst to be president of the 130-year-old, family-owned company, effective Sept. 1, 2026.

Frick Brunkhorst is a fifth-generation family member and will take the reins of the company from her father, Dave Frick, who will remain as a member of the board of directors after 30 years as president of Frick’s. He also will continue to focus on facilities design and expansion as well as mentoring the next generation of leadership.

Frick Brunkhorst has worked across nearly every aspect of the business for the past 25 years, having joined the company when she was 15 years old. She has worked on the production floor, and in product development, branding and long-term strategic planning. Frick Brunkhorst led pioneering work on clean label and branding initiatives that put product quality in focus and also introduced new products. In addition, the company noted in the announcement, she championed wage increases for all plant employees.

With Frick Brunkhorst at the helm, Frick’s expects to continue to invest in product innovation, operations and disciplined growth. She is taking over a company that her father guided through three decades of significant growth. Frick’s was founded in 1896 and is known for its artisan smoked hams, sausages and ready-to-eat meat products.