USA – Bunge Ltd, global leader in agribusiness and food commodities has announced new global operating model plus changes to its senior leadership structure.
The company said the new business structure is aligned with its commercial activities including handling and processing, managing physical product flows, and risk management and optimization.
Agribusiness will be led by three of the company executives working together to manage operations and capitalize on the opportunities in the business segment.
Raul Padilla, President, South America and Sugar & Bioenergy has been named President, Global Operations, managing physical handling and processing assets including Milling.
He will, however, continue leading Sugar & Bioenergy.
Christos Dimopoulos, President, Agribusiness becomes President, Global Supply Chains leading the physical commodity supply chains that support Bunge’s handling and processing assets.
He will also be responsible for trade flows, freight and distribution, serving Bunge and other customers.
Brian Zachman, President, Global Risk Management, will remain in this role, working to improve returns while reducing volatility across the company.
“Shifting away from our regional, matrix-based structure will simplify the organization and speed up decision making, increasing our strategic flexibility, customer focus and accountability,” said Bunge Chief Executive Officer Gregory A. Heckman.
“These changes support our strategic priorities: driving operational performance, optimizing the portfolio and strengthening financial discipline.”
To best capture synergies from the Loders Croklaan acquisition, Bunge has said that Aaron Buettner, Senior Vice President of Bunge Loders Croklaan, will continue in his current role and will now report directly to Mr. Heckman.
This additional management focus and oversight is set to benefit specialty oils, which remains highest value products in Bunge’s portfolio.
Pierre Mauger, President, Europe and Asia, will transition to the role of Chief Transformation Officer, responsible for portfolio optimization and strategy.
As a result of the changes, Todd Bastean, President, North America, and Gordon Hardie, President, Food & Ingredients, are set to retire from Bunge.
“I want to thank Todd and Gordon for their many contributions and dedication to Bunge,” said Heckman
“We appreciate their support in ensuring a seamless transition for customers and employees.
“We are fortunate to have talented leaders with proven track records. I look forward to working with them as we continue to position Bunge for the future.”
