Dave McLennan, Cargill's president and chief operating officer will replace Dial on an interim basis until the company's board of directors elect a successor.
Cargill veteran McLennan joined the firm in 1991 and served as chief financial officer from 2008 to 2011. McLennan, who has also held senior positions in the company's financial, risk management, energy and animal protein businesses, will continue as president and chief operating officer.
Greg Page, Cargill's chairman and chief executive paid tribute to Dial, who has decided to return to his native Brazil for personal reasons.
“Since joining us in 2004, Sergio has energised our growth in Latin America and provided vigorous and thoughtful leadership as a member of the Cargill leadership team and board of directors and as chief financial officer,” he said.
