Ethanol company names former Valero executive to its board

Source: Amanda Peterka, E&E reporter • Posted: Friday, June 20, 2014

The nation’s fourth largest ethanol producer today appointed a former Valero Energy Corp. executive to its board of directors.

Green Plains Inc. said in a statement that Gene Edwards would be a “solid addition” to the board because of his experience in the oil and gas industry and in managerial positions.

Edwards spent 32 years at Valero before retiring in April. He most recently served as executive vice president and chief development officer at the oil giant.

“We believe that Gene will positively contribute to our continued growth strategy and our focus on building long-term shareholder value,” said Todd Becker, Green Plains president and CEO, in the statement.

Edwards began his career at Valero as an analyst in planning and economics. Throughout his career, he worked in various planning and economics, refinery operations, business development and marketing positions.

According to the statement, Edwards played a key role in Valero’s entry into the ethanol business. Valero was the first traditional refiner to begin production of ethanol and currently is the nation’s third-largest producer with 11 ethanol refineries.

Edwards has a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Tulane University and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Texas, San Antonio.

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