American agribusiness The Andersons announced Wednesday that Bill Krueger, president of Trade and Processing, was named to its newly minted chief operating officer (COO) position. The role became effective on December 1. Krueger joined the company in 2019 after serving as CEO and president of Lansing Trade Group for more than a decade.

"The appointment of a Chief Operating Officer as part of our executive leadership structure best supports our growth and strategic vision for the company. Bill is an experienced ag industry leader, whose appreciation for the importance of the company's Statement of Principles to our overall success makes him a tremendous asset at the company," The Andersons president and CEO Pat Bowe said in a release. "We continually review our leadership structure and succession plans focused on developing and selecting leaders who will continue to build a strong and successful company. The creation of the COO role enhances and solidifies our commitment to remaining nimble and innovative as we grow our core businesses in the ag supply chain. I look forward to working with Bill in this new capacity as we continue to grow the company."

During his career, Krueger also worked as a grain merchant for Scoular and ConAgra Trade Group. He currently has a position on the National Grain & Feed Association’s (NGFA) executive committee.

As COO, Krueger will oversee all of The Andersons’ operating segments. Joe McNeely, head of the firm’s nutrient and industrial business unit, will report to CEO Pat Bowe through March 2023 during Krueger’s transition. Executive vice president and chief financial officer Brian Valentine and executive vice president, general counsel Christine Castellano will continue to report to Bowe.