MINNEAPOLIS — Brian Sikes has been promoted to lead Cargill’s global protein and salt businesses, effective in early 2019. The two businesses employ 60,000 in 16 countries and have operations in North America, Latin America, China and Southeast Asia. Mr. Sikes succeeds Todd Hall, who plans to retire after 36 years with the company.

Mr. Sikes was most recently Cargill’s group president of North American Protein, a position he has held since October 2014.

“He led the transformation of the North American protein business, which has delivered strong financial results and expanded offerings in line with shifting consumer demand for value-added protein, sustainable supply chains and alternative proteins,” Cargill said. “Mr. Sikes also led the development of Cargill’s new North American protein headquarters in Wichita, Kas., which is hosting a grand opening Dec. 6. Under Mr. Sikes’ direction, the headquarters is designed to attract new and diverse talent to the company and strengthen collaboration between customers and Cargill’s Food Innovation Center and culinary chefs, also based in Wichita.”

A 27-year veteran of Cargill, Mr. Sikes began his career with the company in 1991. Along with being group president of North American Protein, Mr. Sikes also was managing director for Cargill Meats Europe, president of Cargill Value-Added Meats and President of Cargill Meats Canada.

“Cargill Protein and Salt has experienced strong growth for many years, and Todd has led some of Cargill’s largest and most successful acquisitions,” said David MacLennan, chairman and chief executive officer of Cargill. “We are confident Brian is the right leader to build on that success, and he has demonstrated an authentic leadership style, customer-first focus and an ability to drive change in his role as president of North American protein. Brian has also created inclusive and diverse teams, which is a top priority for Cargill.”