Monsanto Company today announced several organizational changes:

Hendrik A. Verfaillie, 53, was named chief operating officer and a member of the board of directors. He also will continue as Monsanto's president.

Richard U. De Schutter, 59, was named chief administrative officer and a member of the board of directors. He also will continue as vice chairman.

Alan L. Heller, 45, will join Dr. Philip Needleman as co-president of Monsanto's pharmaceutical business.

"We're continuing to simplify our management structure and to strengthen accountabilities for achieving our financial objectives while implementing our life sciences strategy," said Monsanto Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Robert B. Shapiro. " In their new roles, Dick and Hendrik will bring increased focus to our business operations."

Monsanto is a life sciences company, committed to finding solutions to the growing global needs for food and health by sharing common forms of science and technology among agriculture, nutrition and health. The company's 30,600 employees worldwide research, make and market
high-value agricultural products, pharmaceuticals and nutrition-based health products.

Company news release
N1914