USA – Ingredion Incorporated, a leading global provider of ingredient solutions to diversified industries, has announced James P. (Jim) Zallie as the new CEO and company president effective January 1, 2018.
James was unanimously selected by the board of directors while Ilene Gordon, current CEO, president and chairman, will serve as the company’s executive chairman of the board, a position she will hold until her retirement in July 2018.
“I am extremely honored and proud to have served as Ingredion’s CEO for the past eight and a half years. It truly has been the highlight of my career and I have enjoyed every moment of it,” Gordon said.
“We have successfully transformed the business, taking it from a 20th century supplier to a 21st century innovator.
I believe Ingredion is well positioned for the future, and I appreciate the dedication and contributions of the board, leadership team and employees to our success.
Jim is the architect of Ingredion Idea Labs, a global network of innovation centres that foster customer collaboration and drive innovation and growth.
He also led the integration of several key acquisitions, including Penford Foods, Kerr Concentrates and TIC Gums.
He has the vision and experience, as well as the leadership and technical capabilities to navigate Ingredion’s long-term strategy and continue to create shareholder value,” Gordon added.
When approached about the position changes, Zallie remarked, “I am honored by the board’s confidence, and I am excited to carry forward Ingredion’s growth strategy with the support of our 11,000 employees worldwide.
I appreciate Ilene’s support and counsel over the years. She has been an insightful advisor, fearless leader and champion of Ingredion’s values and mission”.
Prior to Ingredion, Zallie was president and CEO of National Starch, where he developed and executed a comprehensive strategy focused on asset productivity, people capability and development. During his four-year tenure, the compound annual sales grew by double digits.
Gregory B. Kenny, Ingredion’s independent lead director, affirmed Gordon’s confidence in Zallie.
“With over 30 years of industry experience, Jim is well prepared to lead Ingredion. He is an outstanding executive who steered National Starch through several ownership transitions, and he was a key player in the integration of National Starch into Ingredion (then Corn Products International).
Jim’s entire leadership team from National Starch stayed with Corn Products after the October 2010 acquisition, which is a testimony to his ability to attract, develop and retain outstanding talent.
