ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA, U.S. — CHS Inc. announced on April 6 that it has named James M. Zappa executive vice-president and general counsel.

Zappa, currently vice-president, associate general counsel and chief compliance officer for the 3M Compliance and Business Conduct Department, will join CHS on April 13. He will report to CHS President and Chief Executive Officer Carl Casale and serve as a member of the company's Strategic Leadership Team.

"Jim brings to CHS extensive global operations, compliance and business conduct experience that aligns well with both our strategic direction and our culture," Casale said.

Zappa will provide counsel to CHS leadership and the CHS board on issues related to company strategy and its execution; corporate governance, and compliance with laws and regulations. He will also work with the CHS corporate finance team to ensure the company maintains the processes and infrastructure that ensure robust Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) reporting and compliance, disclosure and investor communications.

"This role also includes leading our global compliance programs, ensuring that not only does CHS comply with all applicable laws, regulations and rules, but that we live our commitment to operating with ethics and integrity through sound policy implementation and regular employee education," Casale said.

In his most recent position with 3M, Zappa led a global legal team responsible for overall corporate compliance and business conduct. He previously served as vice-president, associate general counsel, International Operations, working with 3M global subsidiaries and business operations. His career also included serving as counsel to the 3M board's Compensation Committee, assistant general counsel for consumer and office business and human resources; and counsel and assistant general counsel for labor and employment law. Prior to joining 3M, he worked for UnitedHealth Group and for the law firm Dorsey & Whitney.

Zappa earned a juris doctor degree from the University of Minnesota Law School, a master's degree in communication arts and sciences from the University of Southern California, and a bachelor's degree from Drake University. He is an active community volunteer and currently serves as a director for the Boy Scouts of America, NorthernStar Council.