Hiland Dairy Promotes New General Manager for Operations in Dallas

Why It Matters

The leadership transition positions Hiland Dairy to maintain operational continuity and deepen customer relationships in a critical Texas market, supporting future growth.

Key Takeaways

• Mike Leibacher becomes Dallas operations GM effective March 1
• Ray Gibson retires after leading since 2009
• Leibacher brings 23 years dairy experience across sales and operations
• Julian Hernandez appointed assistant manager and controller
• Leadership aims to sustain growth after Borden acquisition

Pulse Analysis

Hiland Dairy Foods has long been a staple in the Texas dairy supply chain, serving a broad network of retailers and foodservice customers. The recent promotion of Mike Leibacher to general manager comes at a time when the Dallas‑Fort Worth region is experiencing heightened demand for locally sourced dairy products and streamlined distribution. By installing a leader with deep operational knowledge, Hiland signals its commitment to preserving service reliability while navigating competitive pressures from national brands and emerging regional players.

Ray Gibson’s retirement marks the end of an era; his tenure oversaw the pivotal 2022 acquisition of Borden’s Texas operations, a move that expanded Hiland’s footprint and required careful integration of logistics, quality controls, and customer contracts. Gibson’s industry roots, dating back to a route salesman role, helped maintain continuity for retailers during the transition, reinforcing trust in Hiland’s brand. The seamless handover underscores the company’s focus on stable leadership during periods of strategic change.

Leibacher’s 23‑year dairy background spans sales, merchandising, and national account management, equipping him to drive efficiency and innovation across the Dallas hub. His promotion, alongside Julian Hernandez’s appointment as assistant manager and controller, suggests a dual emphasis on operational excellence and financial discipline. As the market leans toward data‑driven inventory management and sustainability initiatives, Hiland’s refreshed leadership team is poised to capitalize on growth opportunities, strengthen supplier partnerships, and enhance its competitive edge in the regional dairy landscape.