Simplot Co. names Whitacre new leader

Agweek
Published: 02/13/2009

BOISE, Idaho — The J.R. Simplot Co. is under new leadership.

The Boise-based agricultural company announced Thursday that Bill Whitacre will take over as Chief Executive Officer. Whitacre, 55, takes over for Larry Hlobik, who is retiring after serving seven years as the company’s president and CEO.

Whitacre brings more than 30 years of experience in the industry. He joined Simplot in 2000 as president of its turf and horticulture division, and in 2002 was named president of the Simplot AgriBusiness Group.

Scott Simplot, chairman of the family-owned company, said Whitacre was one of several internal candidates considered for the post.

Simplot says the board is confident in Whitacre’s ability to lead the company in the future and called him an effective and visionary leader.