Chiquita Brands International has revealed that its board of directors has appointed Michael Sims as the group's new senior vice-president chief financial officer (CFO), moving from his current role as vice-president of corporate development and treasurer.
Mr Sims, a 21-year veteran of Chiquita, is now responsible for all aspects of the company's financial operations worldwide, according to Chiquita.
'We are delighted to have someone of Mike's calibre and have been preparing him to succeed Jeff in the role of chief financial officer,' said group chairman and CEO Fernando Aguirre. 'Mike brings to the role excellent operational skills, deep finance and accounting expertise, a proven track record with the company and strong leadership skills.
Mike has been part of our succession planning for years and I am confident he is the right leader for our organisation at this time,' Mr Aguirre added. 'Mike will build on our business momentum and apply his outstanding operational skills to partner with out leadership team.'
Mr Sims replaces the outgoing Jeffrey Zalla, who is leaving the company to pursue other business ventures.
Mr Aguirre added: 'It has been a pleasure to partner with Jeff during his four years as CFO, as we completed and integrated the Fresh Express acquisition, engineered an attractive capital structure and drove significant improvements in profitability. He has been a strong leader and role model throughout his 19-year career. We will miss Jeff's integrity and intelligence and wish him every success in his new endeavours.'
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