New director for GrainCorp

Mr Richards was chief executive officer of Dyno Nobel's Australian explosives business from 2005 until 2008 when the company was bought by Incitec Pivot.

GrainCorp managing director Don Taylor expects him to bring a "well-rounded business experience in mergers and acquisitions, international operations, supply chain management and stakeholder engagement" to GrainCorp's board table.

Prior to joining Dyno Nobel in 1990 Mr Peters worked for Wesfarmers and BP Petroleum and has more than 30 years business experience with global companies in business development and operational roles in the UK and US.

He is currently a non-executive director of mining companies NSL Consolidated based in Western Australia and Queensland's Cockatoo Coal; international mining equipment company, Emeco Holdings, and mineral processor Sedgman Limited.

"Peter's skills will provide new perspectives and ideas which will be critical for the next phase of business growth, particularly into international markets," Mr Taylor said.

From today GrainCorp has nine independent non-executive directors and a managing director, but the board will reduce to eight independent directors when Mr Trebeck retires at the December annual general meeting.

Mr Trebeck, a one-time economist with the National Farmers Federation and principal of economic consultancy ACIL, joined GrainCorp's board in 2002 serving on its people, remuneration and nominations Committee, the audit committee, and safety, health environment and governance committee.

He is also owns grazing and graingrowing interests in southern NSW.

"David has been an outstanding director, completely devoted to guiding and overseeing the continued success of GrainCorp," said Mr Taylor.

"His skills and experience have been an invaluable asset to the board and the business as a whole. I personally wish to thank David for his efforts and dedication."