SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA — GrainCorp announced on Nov. 9 that David Trebeck will retire from the GrainCorp board at the upcoming annual general meeting, and Peter Richards will join  the board as a non-executive director. Trebeck was appointed to the board in 2002, and over the last 13 years he has been a significant contributor to GrainCorp’s growth strategy, the company said.

During Trebeck’s tenure he served as chairman of the People Remuneration and Nominations Committee and previously the Board Audit Committee, and was a member of the Safety Health Environment and Governance Committee.

“GrainCorp and the board of directors sincerely thank Mr. Trebeck for his tireless contribution to the company,” said Don Taylor, GrainCorp chairman. “David has been an outstanding director, completely devoted to guiding and overseeing the continued success of GrainCorp. David’s skills and experience have been an invaluable asset to the board and the business as a whole. I personally wish to thank David for his efforts and dedication.”

In line with GrainCorp’s plan to refresh the board and bring new skills and perspectives to the business, the company also announced that Richards has been appointed as a non-executive director effective Nov. 9.

Richards was formerly the chief executive officer (CEO), Australia with Dyno Nobel Pty Ltd from 2005-08, having held various senior positions in the company since 1990. Prior to joining Dyno Nobel, Richards worked for Wesfarmers Limited and BP Petroleum PLC.

Richards has over 30 years business experience with global companies, having worked in operational and business development roles in Australia, the U.K. and the U.S. In addition to his position on the GrainCorp board, Richards is a non-executive director of Cockatoo Coal Limited, Emeco Holdings Limited, Sedgman Limited and NSL Consolidated Limited.

Taylor said that Richards brings to GrainCorp well-rounded business experience in mergers and acquisitions, international operations, supply chain management and stakeholder engagement.

“Peter’s skills will complement and further enhance the collective talent on our board,” said Taylor. “Peter will provide new perspectives and ideas which will be critical for the next phase of business growth, particularly into international markets.”

With Richards’ appointment, the GrainCorp board comprises nine independent non-executive directors and the managing director and CEO. The total number of non-executive directors will reduce to eight following Trebeck’s retirement.