USA: Cargill limited president retires

Under Mr.Hawkins’ leadership, Cargill has become one of the most innovative, customer-solutions driven agri-business companies in Canada. An organization that has come to pride itself on serving the community through investment, charity involvement and employee volunteerism.

“I am very proud to have been a part of our industry’s many achievements and to have shared experiences with colleagues, trade group leaders and government officials,” said Hawkins. “Serving Cargill and the agricultural community has truly been a great honour and a privilege.”

After completing his degree in Business Economics from North Dakota State University in 1964, Mr. Hawkins joined Cargill, Incorporated in Minneapolis. He then transferred to Chicago as a grain trader and in 1966, moved back to Winnipeg, Manitoba. In 1970, Mr. Hawkins transferred to London, England, where he became head of grain operations in the U.K. and in 1974, he transferred to Geneva. In 1977, he returned to Canada and became Vice-President of Cargill Limited in charge of the Canadian grain operations. In 1982, he was appointed President of Cargill Limited headquartered in Winnipeg.

“On behalf of Cargill, I want to express our profound gratitude for Kerry’s exceptional vision and leadership and his unwavering commitment and dedication to our organization and industry,” said Warren Staley, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer. “At the same time, I want to wish him all the best in a very well deserved retirement.”

During his tenure as president, Mr. Hawkins was also extremely active in, and supportive of the arts and charity community. In November 2001, Mr. Hawkins was the first recipient of the Lieutenant Governor’s award for “Outstanding Contribution to the Community” and in May 2002, was presented by the Brandon University Foundation the “Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser” award for his tireless contributions.Headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Cargill Limited employs 9,000 people across the country and has business interests in meat, egg and oilseed processing, animal nutrition and services, salt, chocolate, natural gas, as well as grain handling and merchandising.

09 December, 2005