AUSTARLIA – Grain and commodities storage company, GrainCorp has appointed Robert Spurway to take up the role of Managing Director and CEO after completion of the planned demerger of the Company’s Malt business in early 2020.

To enhance a more strategic focus on the business, GrainCorp is planning to demerge its global malting business to form a new division, MaltCo.

This will result in the formation of two separate businesses: one focused on malting business and a stand-alone Australian grains business.

The new GrainCorp will entirely operate in grains, oilseeds, pulses, edible oils and feeds while MaltCo will be a global malting and craft brewing distribution business.

According to the terms of the new appointment, Mr Spurway will assume office following GrainCorp shareholder and Court validation of the demerger of its Malt business – which the company anticipates to be approved by 30 June 2020.

GrainCorp Chairman, Graham Bradley AM, said the Board was delighted to announce the appointment of Mr Spurway, following an extensive local and international search process.

Mr Spurway has more than 25 years’ experience in the food and dairy industries, including multiple senior operational roles with both Fonterra and Goodman Fielder Australia, and CEO positions with Salad Fresh and Mrs Crocket’s Kitchen.

He will be joining the company from Fonterra Co-operative Group, where he has held the position of Chief Operating Officer, Global Operations for the last six years.

“GrainCorp’s Board is very pleased that Robert has accepted the role as the next Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of GrainCorp after completion of the demerger,” Mr Bradley said.

“Robert is a proven leader who brings extensive experience in the food and dairy industries, both through operational and executive leadership roles.”

“Robert has led complex operational businesses and overseen transformational change programmes which have delivered significant benefits for customers and shareholders.

“He has a deep understanding of the Australian and New Zealand agricultural industries, which will serve us well as we continue to evolve GrainCorp’s strategy and customer offering.” 

Mr Spurway said: “I’m delighted to be joining GrainCorp as the next Chief Executive Officer at an exciting time for the Company. GrainCorp is an iconic Australian agribusiness with a long and rich history.”

Mr Spurway’s employment as Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of GrainCorp will commence on the effective date of approval of the demerger.