USA – Global agribusiness company, Bunge has appointed Gregory A. Heckman as the company’s next Chief Executive Officer, after serving in the role on an interim basis for three months.

The appointment allows Heckman to continue executing the company strategy he established last quarter to improve performance, focusing and optimizing the portfolio and strengthening financial discipline.

He brings more than 30 years of agribusiness experience to the role after working in the agriculture, food, and food ingredients sectors.

Heckman, 56, joined the Bunge board in October 2018 and was appointed acting chief executive officer in January 2019, succeeding Soren Schroder who decided to step down from the company in 2018.

“After a thorough, global search process, the Board clearly recognized that Greg has the unique combination of expertise, vision and leadership to successfully lead Bunge,” said Non-Executive Board Chair Kathleen Hyle.

“His effectiveness over the past several months as Acting CEO has solidified our view that Greg will drive continued progress for the business.”

He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in agriculture economics and marketing from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

His appointment is effective immediately and will be based at Bunge’s headquarters in White Plains, NY.

He previously served as CEO of the Gavilon Group and in senior executive roles at ConAgra Foods.

Speaking on his appointment, Gregory A. Heckman said: “I joined the Bunge board because I recognized the significant opportunity to leverage Bunge’s team and global footprint to drive improved operational performance and create shareholder value.

“The last few months spent visiting company facilities and meeting with employees around the world has reinforced and increased my confidence in Bunge’s ability to deliver for our customers, shareholders and partners.

“We will continue to streamline and focus the business as we position Bunge for the future.”

Bunge hailed the former Schroder as having greatly contributed to growth of its food business as well as its core agricultural activities.