Effective immediately, Erik Heggen has been named the new chief executive officer of Stratas Foods. He replaces Tedd Kruse, who has assumed the role of president of Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) Milling.

Heggen has been either indirectly associated or directly involved with Stratas since the company began. He joined ADM in 2001 in Specialty Feed Ingredients, later joining the refined oils group, progressing through sales & marketing and leadership roles to ultimately be named president of North American Refined Oils at ADM.

Most recently, he has been a member of the ADM Nutrition organization, serving in leadership roles in specialty ingredients, global sales, and pricing and analytics.  He has also held leadership positions on external advisory boards such as the former chairman of the Institute of Shortening and Edible Oils Advisory Council and on the Board of Directors of National Association of Manufacturers.

 “Erik’s proven track record, especially his prior position of President of ADM’s Refined Oil Business, are an outstanding fit for Stratas,” says Steve Zaruba, Chairman of the Board for Stratas Foods. “His recent roles within ADM’s Nutrition Business build upon his edible oil experience, and provide Stratas with diverse, deep industry insights that will be helpful as Stratas grows and expands its business.”