July 9 (Reuters) - Smithfield Foods, the world"s largest pork processor, said on Friday Chief Executive Officer Dennis Organ is stepping down for personal reasons less than a year after taking the helm. It has appointed 18-year company veteran Shane Smith to the top role, in the second high-profile CEO change in recent weeks at a major U.S. meat company after Tyson Foods Inc (TSN.N) named a new chief last month. read more The Smithfield, Virginia-based company, owned by Hong Kong"s WH Group Ltd (0288.HK), in January unveiled a management shakeup that saw several executives retire. read more The U.S. meat industry came under the microscope during the COVID-19 pandemic as workers got sick and slaughterhouse shutdowns highlighted supply-chain vulnerabilities. A North Carolina native, Smith joined Smithfield as a financial analyst in 2003. He was most recently its chief strategy officer, overseeing the company"s efforts to boost sales through its own resources as well as mergers and acquisitions.