Yara International ASA has appointed Terje Knutsen as Head of Downstream. He succeeds Egil Hogna, who has submitted his resignation. Knutsen will assume his new position on 1 May 2015. Yara's Downstream business unit manages the company's global sales, marketing and distribution of fertilizers.
Terje Knutsen currently heads Yara's business unit for Downstream activities in North & East Europe. Prior to this, he was Head of Business Unit Asia. Aged 52, Knutsen holds a Master's degree in economics and business administration from the Norwegian School of Economics (NHH). Since joining the company in 1987, he has had an extensive international career, working twelve years outside Norway. Knutsen will be part of Yara's executive management team and report to the President and CEO.
"Terje Knutsen has extensive experience from Yara, ranging from heading business units abroad to managerial positions at the headquarters. His competence will be highly valuable as Yara continues its efforts to support a more efficient and climate-smart agricultural sector," said Torgeir Kvidal, acting CEO of Yara International.
Egil Hogna joined the company in 1999, and has been a member of Yara's executive management team since August 2008, first as Chief Financial Officer, and thereafter as Head of Downstream since August 2009. Hogna will be employed by Yara until July 31, 2015.
"I have concluded that the timing is right to seek new challenges, and I look forward to exploring potential opportunities. My tenure in Downstream and Yara has been exciting, and I am particularly proud of our increased efforts and results within safety, marketing and innovation, and the significant acquisitions and company integrations we have carried out, especially in Latin America," said Egil Hogna.
Egil Hogna has been a valuable member of the management team, and I regret that he is leaving. I am grateful for the good and close cooperation we have had during the years and wish him continued success," said Torgeir Kvidal.