Fonterra Co-operative, a leader in dairy nutrition, has announced the appointment of Theo Spierings as its new CEO.
July 18, 2011
Fonterra Co-operative, a leader in dairy nutrition, has announced the appointment of Theo Spierings as its new CEO. Spierings, who led the Dutch farmer dairy co-operative, Royal Friesland Foods, into a merger with Campina in 2008, will take over from Fonterra’s departing CEO Andrew Ferrier, effective Sept. 26. Ferrier announced his resignation from Fonterra last March.
“Mr. Spierings has a wealth of experience in managing dairy businesses across Asia, Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, and Europe,” said Fonterra’s Chairman Sir Henry van der Heyden. “Most importantly, Mr. Spierings has an in-built respect for the co-operative structure and for farmers and their commitment to co-operative principles. He is well recognized by his peers for his people leadership, delivery of results, and strong strategic skills.”
In addition to a 25-year career in the dairy industry, Spierings has held a variety of general management, operations, and supply chain and sales and marketing positions across a number of geographies. Spierings holds a B.A. in Food Technology/Biotechnology and a Masters in Business Administration.
Press release