ADM to set up new global HQ; Decatur to become North American HQ
The firm, which is currently based in Decatur, Illinois, says no layoffs are planned as a result of the move, and it remains “firmly committed to the 4,400 colleagues who will continue to work in Decatur”, which will become its North American HQ.
However, it needs a “location that allows us to travel and work efficiently with customers and employees throughout the world” and “an environment where we can attract and retain employees with diverse skills, and where family members can find ample career opportunities”, said CEO Patricia Woertz,
New HQ will house 100 execs and new IT center
The company will not say which continent the new HQ will be located in, but says it is “considering locations and having discussions with various public officials and advisors”.
The plan is to re-locate a “small, corporate team” of around 100 people to the global center, which will also house a new IT tech center, adding approximately 100 new positions there over the next few years, said Woertz.
We are investing in Decatur’s economic development
As for Decatur, she said: “To ensure that Decatur remains a strong and vibrant community for years to come, we are also announcing today several multi-year financial commitments. We are investing in Decatur’s economic development to help ensure it flourishes economically, in its schools to foster a strong workforce pipeline, and in critical social services to enhance the quality of community life.
Specifically, ADM is committing $250,000 a year for three years to fund a public-private partnership and marketing campaign for the Economic Development Corporation of Decatur & Macon County, including the funding of a mayoral economic development fellow; and $500,000 a year for five years to Decatur Public School District 61.
It will also maintain its other Decatur and Macon County community support at $1m a year for at least 10 years.
