Effective December 1, 2005, Cargill Limited has named Len Penner president, the company announced. He was appointed vice president of Cargill Limited in May 1998.

Penner succeeds Kerry Hawkins, who after a 41-year career with Cargill, has retired. Penner also will retain his responsibilities leading the Cargill AgHorizons business unit in Canada, consisting of Cargill's operations focused on serving crop-producing farmers in Canada.

"I remain very optimistic of the potential for success in the agricultural and food industries," said Penner. "In my new role, I most look forward to collaborating closely with a wide cross section of industry and government leaders to further strengthen the relationships and returns along the entire value-chain."

Penner joined Cargill in 1975 and has held sales, sales management and general management positions in the seed business within Canada. He also has held various management positions within the commodity, grain handling and crop input divisions prior to being appointed to his current position within the company.

"I am very pleased with the appointment of Len Penner, as he is someone with exceptional leadership and personal qualities," said past president Kerry Hawkins. "Len's strong background in the business, coupled with this extensive experience in serving and relating to farmers provides, a solid foundation for our company and industry."