Food technology firm Benson Hill Inc. announced Monday that former Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) executive Bruce Bennett was appointed as president of its Ingredients business segment and will join the company’s executive leadership team.

Reporting to chief executive officer Matt Crisp, Bennett will lead global operations of the company’s Ingredients portfolio for the plant-based protein market, including production, sales and delivery, and product innovations.

“Bruce has a deep understanding of the interconnected factors that influence the sourcing decisions of traders, processors, and CPG companies, including demand for protein diversity and functionality, the continued need for operational efficiencies, and growing interest in sustainability,” Crisp said in a company release. “We look forward to benefitting from Bruce’s leadership skills, bold thinking, and extensive industry experience as we continue our rapid growth trajectory to serve the food industry’s evolution from commodities to more whole and differentiated ingredient options, starting with a better seed.”

Bennett brings about 20 years of food industry experience to the role. He formerly served as vice president, strategic sourcing at McClement Management Group and worked for more than 25 years at ADM. During his tenure with the agribusiness, he held a variety of global roles, including vice president, Foods & Wellness; president, Specialty Ingredients; and president, Plant Proteins.

“Benson Hill is growing higher-quality raw materials in the ground before they have even crossed the farm gate. I believe the company has the potential to open new market opportunities for farmers, improve ingredients for food manufacturers, and significantly reduce energy and water use, as well as the overall carbon footprint of the food industry,” said Bennett in a statement. “Its unique approach to modernizing food production aligns with consumer demand for cleaner and more sustainable food choices, which food manufacturers are seeking to satisfy.”