ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI, U.S. — Bunge North America announced on March 28 a leadership transition with the appointment of George Allard as vice-president and general manager of its oils business effective April 1. Allard replaces Rodney Perry who is transferring to Bunge's European office as vice-president, food and ingredients for Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Wade Ellis replaces Allard as vice-president and general manager of Bunge's North American milling business.

"George is a proven leader with a track record of success in expanding our operations in the food and ingredients segment," said Soren Schroder, president and chief executive officer, Bunge North America. "With experience in both sales and operations, Wade understands our customers' need and what it takes to provide them with quality products and service."

Allard joined Bunge in 2004 as treasurer of Bunge North America, and also served as chief financial official for the company's Canadian operations and for Bunge Latin America before assuming his most recent position as head of North America's milling business. Before coming to Bunge, George spent more than 12 years working in various financial positions for Guidant Corp. and Eridania Beghin-Say.

Ellis came to Bunge in 2003 after several years working in sales and agronomy for the hybrid seed corn industry. At Bunge, he has held various sales positions, including vice president, sales for the milling business and, most recently, general manager of Bunge's rice milling facility located in Woodland, California, U.S.