Ford brings a wealth of experience in managing global operations and supply chain networks to her new role. During her 25-year career, Ford has held leadership positions in multiple industries, including flavor and fragrances (chemicals), consumer package goods, publishing, and oil and gas. Ford's broad functional experience includes line and staff management, procurement, engineering, manufacturing, quality control, planning, customer service, logistics and distribution.

"We're very pleased to have Beth join Land O'Lakes," said Policinski. "She brings our senior leadership team additional insight and experience, particularly in the area of supply chain and operations. Beth is a recognized leader in her field and has a strong track record of success."

Most recently, Ford was the executive vice president, head of supply chain, at International Flavors and Fragrances (IFF). At IFF, she was responsible for optimizing the company's global manufacturing infrastructure, including consolidation of multiple international facilities, as well as the construction of new manufacturing capabilities in India, China and Singapore. Prior to IFF, she held a progression of supply chain and operations management roles with Mobil Corporation, PepsiCo and Pepsi Bottling Company, Hachette Book Group and Scholastic, Inc.

Ford holds an MBA from Columbia University Business School with an emphasis in Finance, and a BBA from Iowa State University in Management.

 From the December 22, 2011, Prepared Foods' Daily News.