WASHINGTON — National Sugar Marketing L.L.C. announced Chris Simons as its next president and chief executive officer effective Oct. 14, replacing Bill Smith, who is retiring but will continue with N.S.M. to ensure a smooth transition and as an adviser on key initiatives. Mr. Smith has led N.S.M. since its inception in 2011.

Mr. Simons spent more than 20 years at Cargill, including tenure as vice-president of the Sweeteners division, overseeing seven product lines with more than $2 billion in annual revenue. He began his career with the German grocery retailer Aldi.

“Over nearly two decades, Chris has built an impressive track record of strategic, operational and commercial accomplishments,” Mr. Smith said. “He has proven to be a successful and trusted leader and brings to this position a strong reputation for developing people and inspiring teams. His wealth of experience across a global system will be a valuable asset as N.S.M. continues to grow and improve how we serve our members and customers. It has been a tremendous honor to serve as the president and c.e.o. of National Sugar Marketing since the inception of the company, and I am incredibly proud of everything we’ve accomplished together and how we serve our clients. We’ve grown N.S.M. into one of the preeminent sugar marketing firms in the nation, and I’m excited to see Chris continue to build on this momentum.”

Under Mr. Smith’s leadership, N.S.M.’s gross sales have reached about $1.4 billion, with more than 500 customers in over 40 states. He also recently directed N.S.M.’s consolidation and move to its new headquarters in Atlanta.

N.S.M. is a marketing alliance of The Amalgamated Sugar Company L.L.C., based in Boise, Idaho; Southern Minnesota Beet Sugar Cooperative, based in Renville, Minn.; and Sucden Americas Corp., based in Miami.