Itafos, Toronto, reports that Dr. Mhamed Ibnabdeljalil has been appointed interim CEO, effective immediately. He currently serves on the company board of directors and will continue in that role. Dr. Ibnabdeljalil succeeds Brian Zatarain, who is stepping down as CEO to pursue other interests.
Dr. Ibnabdeljalil previously served as the Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of OCP Group SA. While there, Itafos noted that he played an integral role in the corporate and strategic restructuring of OCP, reshaping its role in the phosphate fertilizer sector as a global leader. He has also served as a director on more than a dozen boards of fertilizer companies in Europe, India, Middle East, and Americas.
“We are pleased that a leader of Dr. Ibnabdeljalil’s caliber and experience has agreed to lead the company on an interim basis,” said Itafos Chairman Brent de Jong. “With more than two decades of experience, Dr. Ibnabdeljalil has a deep understanding of the phosphate fertilizer industry and the opportunities ahead of the company. Our knowledgeable board will continue to lend its expertise to Dr. Ibnabdeljalil and the organization while we identify our next CEO and will ensure a smooth transition.
“On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Mr. Zatarain for his service and contributions to the company,” de Jong added.