Seminis Inc., the world’s leading developer, producer and marketer of vegetable and fruit seeds, announced today that it has named Mr. Kerry Preete to lead its global business.

Preete was most recently the vice president of crop production at Monsanto, Seminis’ parent company, where he was responsible for U.S. businesses that included chemistry, traits and seeds.

Preete said that he does not anticipate any strategic shifts to Seminis’ focus or direction as a result of the change. “Seminis is in a very strong position, and for our customers and partners, it will be business as usual,” he said. “I am excited about this opportunity, and look forward to leading such a well-regarded company at this important juncture in its history.”

Preete joined Monsanto in 1985 and served in a variety of sales, marketing and commercial development positions in both U.S. and international markets. He is a graduate of the University of Saskatchewan with a bachelor’s degree in business and has his master’s degree from Washington University.

Preete succeeds Mr. Bruno Ferrari, Seminis’ current chief executive, who will be leaving the company at the end of the year.

Seminis is the world's leading developer, producer and marketer of vegetable seeds. Its products are designed to reduce the need for agricultural chemicals, increase crop yield, reduce spoilage, offer longer shelf life, and create better-tasting foods and foods with higher nutritional content. Seminis has established a worldwide presence and global distribution network that spans 150 countries and territories.