From 1 September 2013, the segment will have one division focusing on Brazil, and another focusing on the Southern Cone region – made up of Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Rio Grande South in Brazil, and Pampeano.
Each division will have its own CEO, with former a commercial director at Marfrig, Andrew Murchie, due to head up Marfig Beef Brazil. Secco Martin, who has 25 years’ experience in the beef industry and is currently responsible for Marfrig’s operations in Uruguay and Chile, will take over as CEO of Marfrig Beef Southern Cone.
Both executives will report to the group’s new CEO Secco Martin, who is expected to be settled in his new role by 1 January 2014. Current CEO Marcos Molina will take over the role of chairman on the company’s board of directors.
Marfrig has also announced the retirement of James Cruden, CEO of Marfrig’s current beef division for South America, after 39 years working for the company. The company said that Cruden had played a “key role” in the development of its beef, lamb and leather businesses and left behind a “legacy of important contributions”, including leadership on sustainability, commitment to low costs and the international expansion of its Brazilian operations.
“To James, thank you very much for your commitment over these years and the contributions you leave behind. To Andrew and Martin, we wish much success in their new assignments,” it said in a statement.
Beefing up
Marfrig recently announced the sale of its Seara pig and poultry business to JBS Brazil, stating that the sale would allow it to reduce debts and concentrate its beef and foodservice businesses.
The sale, which would make JBS the world's biggest poultry producer, is currently under consideration by the competent authorities including Brazil's anti-trust agency.