Melbourne-based Incitec Pivot Ltd. (IPL), the Australian fertilizer and explosives producer,announced on June 6 that Jeanne Johns will be stepping down as IPL’s Managing Director and CEO. Paul Victor, IPL’s Chief Financial Officer, has been appointed Interim CEO while the Board undertakes a comprehensive search process for a permanent CEO.
Johns has served as IPL’s CEO since 2017. IPL said Johns will continue to work with the Board and Victor until June 30, 2023, to facilitate a smooth transition of her responsibilities. Liza Somers, IPL’s Chief of Staff, has been appointed as Interim CFO. Somers has been with IPL for 10 years, holding key leadership positions in the finance team.
“I would like to acknowledge and thank Jeanne for all her efforts and commitment to our company over the past five and a half years,” said IPL Chairman Brian Kruger. “She leaves the company in a very strong financial position and with a solid platform for future growth. Jeanne led the organization through the very challenging COVID-19 pandemic and has been instrumental in developing our decarbonization strategy that has received the strong support of our shareholders.”
Kruger said Jones also led the company through some significant transactions that will create long-term value for shareholders, including the urea offtake agreement with Perdaman Fertilisers and Chemicals Pty Ltd. (GM May 7, 2021) and the recently announced sale of the Waggaman, La., ammonia plant to CF Industries Holdings Inc. (GM March 24, p. 1).