J.R. Simplot CEO Announces Retirement, Seventh In Company History

J.R. Simplot has announced Bill Whitacre will retire in August. Whitacre has been CEO for the past nine years and with the company for 18 years. Whitacre was the company’s sixth CEO since its founder Jack Simplot stepped down in 1973. The company says it is considering internal candidates for the next CEO.
“Bill has been a highly successful and visionary leader who has helped the J.R. Simplot Company reach new heights and expand our global presence,” says Scott Simplot, Chairman of the Board of Directors. “The company, the board and the extended Simplot Family thank him for his leadership and commitment.”
The company says during Whitacre’s time as CEO, the company increased revenues from approximately $4.5 billion to $6 billion today.
“It has been an honor to lead this great company,” says Whitacre. “The agriculture industry continues to offer significant opportunities and the J. R. Simplot Company is well positioned to continue its leadership position earned over the past 90 years.”