For Immediate Release
January 14, 2021
(Houston, Texas) –The King Ranch, Inc., Board of Directors today announced the search for a successor for the current President and Chief Executive Officer, Robert J. Underbrink, 59, of Houston, Texas. Underbrink has been President, CEO and a member of the board for 10 years, and an employee for 36 years.
Company Chairman James H. Clement commented, “King Ranch and its family owners recognize the leadership Robert has brought to King Ranch. Robert has been a highly capable CEO, who helped the Company diversify and pursue new opportunities in turfgrass, permanent nut crops, and branding joint ventures. As we move ahead, we will work to identify new leadership with the same passion and dedication Robert has provided King Ranch for the last 10 years.”
Clement stated that Underbrink will remain President, CEO and a board member until a successor is announced. He will continue to serve as an advisor to the Company on various matters.
“It’s been a journey of a lifetime,” Underbrink said. “The Company continues to expand its operations. Its employees are its most important asset. The family is in its 7th generation, and we believe the time is right to proceed with succession planning for this important role.”
“Robert has been an energetic and respected leader for the Company,” commented John Alexander, who chairs the Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee which will be guiding the Board’s search effort. Alexander will be the point of contact for all inquiries relating to the search.
King Ranch, Inc., is a privately-held agricultural production and resource management company established in 1853. Headquartered in Texas and owner of the historic 825,000 acre King Ranch, its operations include cattle breeding and production, horses, wildlife management and recreation, and the production of a number of agricultural commodities including cotton, milo, sugar cane, almonds and pistachios and various vegetables.
King Ranch operates extensive turfgrass operations and is the majority owner of the largest citrus producer in the United States. The Company operates various retail operations, including the famous King Ranch Saddle Shop, and has branding partnerships with Ford Motor Co., Textron Aviation and most recently with the Fertitta Family for the expansion of the King Ranch Texas Kitchen restaurant concept.
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Contact:
DeJuana Bivins
Phone: 832-681-5701
Email: dbivins@king-ranch.com