FMC Corporation announces executive leadership changes in Information Technology and Government Affairs

FMC Corporation (NYSE: FMC), an agricultural sciences company, announced changes to its leadership team, which includes the planned retirements of two executives.   

Dave Kotch, vice president and chief information officer (CIO), has elected to retire from FMC on May 1 following a 40-year career with the company. Under his leadership, Kotch transformed the company's business and financial systems into a highly integrated, efficient network focused on commercial success. He was an early champion of aligning the Information Technology (IT) function with specific business needs and is credited with driving functional excellence across IT, including operating efficiency, cybersecurity and network reliability. 

Following Kotch's retirement, the IT organization will integrate with multiple functions and disciplines as part of a new, integrated digital business model encompassing systems, data and analytics. A Digital Business Council will drive collaboration and IT efficiency across the company's commercial teams, business processes, operations and precision agriculture. 

Shawn Whitman, vice president, Government Affairs, has decided to retire from FMC on April 1 to pursue other career opportunities. During his 11 years with the company, Whitman transformed the function from a U.S. centric organization into a broad, global team with tighter business alignment. Under his leadership, FMC expanded strategic partnerships with leading regional and international organizations. He was instrumental in strengthening FMC's voice with policymakers and government leaders worldwide. Following Whitman's retirement, the Government Affairs function will report directly to Julie DiNatale, vice president and chief sustainability officer. 

″The impact Dave and Shawn have had on our company has been immense,″ said Mark Douglas, FMC president and chief executive officer. ″Dave has devoted his entire career to FMC, and his imprint is on every facet of our business systems and IT infrastructure around the world. He has been a champion of IT strategy grounded in business priorities, commercial results and efficiency. 

″Shawn has elevated FMC's profile among key stakeholders in government and with multiple international agencies. He has been an unwavering advocate for sound legislation that supports innovation in crop protection and has been one of the company’s leading voices on the role of agribusiness in addressing global food security.″ Douglas added, ″I am thankful for the partnership and contributions from Dave and Shawn throughout their FMC careers and wish them the best in their retirements and future endeavors.″