Monsanto names new President and Chief Commercial Officer

Monsanto announced that Brett Begemann, 51, has been named as the company's President and Chief Commercial Officer. In his expanded role as President, Begemann will lead the oversight and operational execution of the company's near-term expansion and growth in key international markets.

Hugh Grant will continue to serve as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer for Monsanto Company, where he maintains ongoing responsibility for leading the company's long-term corporate strategy, as well as setting direction and maintaining oversight of its operations. Grant will continue to focus on the delivery of strategic plans and policies for the organization, including the company's long-term vision- a vision that is focused on producing more, conserving more and improving the lives of people throughout the world.

Begemann formerly served as Monsanto's executive vice president and chief commercial officer for global business operations. In his expanded role as President, Begemann will work to ensure the commercial development of the company's next-generation of growth drivers. These drivers include growth in established markets as well as new markets like Eastern Europe, China and Latin America, as well as growth through the next wave of agriculture innovations such as Integrated Farming Systems and Ag Biologicals. Begemann will continue to lead the global commercial business including overseeing the commercial, manufacturing and supply chain operations in row crops, vegetables and crop protection.

Begemann joined the former Monsanto Company in 1983. Throughout his career with the company, Begemann has served in a variety of roles across sales, marketing, commercial development as well as senior management positions worldwide.