Garrett Lofto has been named president and chief executive officer of the J.R. Simplot Co. He will succeed Bill Whitacre, who announced his retirement in April, on Sept. 1.
Mr. Lofto has been president of the company’s Agribusiness group since 2009. He has been with the company for the past 26 years.
“Garrett is an outstanding leader and has the vision to guide the company into an exciting future,” said Scott Simplot, chairman of Simplot’s board of directors. “We’re well positioned for success across our organization and the Simplot family and board of directors are confident we’ve got the right leader to help us achieve great things.”
Mr. Whitacre retires after an 18-year career with the J. R. Simplot Co., the past nine as president and c.e.o. As c.e.o., he expanded the company’s international footprint and enhanced its position with communities, industries, customers and employees. By strengthening Simplot’s competitive position and growing its global presence, Mr. Whitacre has overseen an increase in revenues from approximately $4.5 billion to $6 billion today.
By Keith Nunes
Source: Food Business News
Danone has appointed Carla Hilhorst to the newly created position of senior vice president of research and innovation categories and zones, as the company looks to make science the heart of its business. Hilhorst, who brings over 30 years of experience in research and innovation, will report directly to Isabelle Esser, Danone’s chief research, innovation, quality and food safety officer.
The move, part of Pernod Ricard’s strategy to enhance its premiumisation efforts, will allow the company to focus more resources on its portfolio of premium international spirits and champagne brands that drive the growth of its business. This decision aligns with the company’s commitment to delivering sustainable value for shareholders, employees, clients and partners.
Schai – who is the current CEO of Swiss chocolate company Lindt & Sprüngli’s Australian operation – has previously worked with Aryzta from 2015-2018, where he served in roles including managing director for Asia Pacific and global strategic business lead (McDonald’s). The fast-food giant McDonald’s is one of Aryzta’s significant clients.
