Crane to retire as CBH boss

CBH Group chief executive Andrew Crane is stepping down from the role after eight years at the helm of Australia's largest grain exporter, with the group to immediately begin a search for his successor.

Mr Crane has spent 17 years with CBH in various roles, including as CEO since 2009.

“While I have been fortunate to do many roles across the CBH Group and represent the business in forums across the world, there is nothing I like more than talking with our growers at regular meetings in the Wheatbelt and working with their customers so they truly value the unique connection the co-operative can bring between the producer and the customer,” Mr Crane said.

“Over the years, I have been grateful for the support, guidance, grower expertise and proactive challenge of the board as we have worked together to address a number of issues in the business and relentlessly pursue the protection, creation and return of value to growers.”

CBH chairman Wally Newman said the group was now undertaking a detailed internal and external search for its next CEO.

“The board is keen to run and open and thorough process to find the next leader of CBH and take the time needed to make the right choice,” Mr Newman said.

“Andy leaves a legacy that he and growers can be proud of.

“The numbers speak for themselves, CBH is financially very strong, grower loyalty and satisfaction levels are at record highs and safety incidents at record lows.”

Mr Crane said he would work with the board in the year ahead to ensure a smooth CEO transition.