WESTCHESTER, ILL. – Ingredion Inc. on Oct. 30 announced the upcoming retirement of Cheryl Beebe, chief financial officer and executive vice-president, and the appointment of Victoria Reich to its board of directors.

Ms. Beebe decided to step down because of family health issues. Her retirement becomes effective Jan. 6. Jack Fortnum, currently president, North America, will succeed Ms. Beebe as c.f.o. James Zallie, currently president, Asia Pacific and EMEA, will succeed Mr. Fortnum as president, North America.

“It is with great regret that we announce Cheryl’s retirement today,” said Ilene Gordon, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Westchester-based Ingredion. “She has brought immense passion, leadership, commitment and world class financial acumen to our company for decades.”

Mr. Fortnum joined CPC International, Ingredion’s former parent company, in 1984. He held a range of key financial roles, including corporate controller of Corn Products International. He received a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Toronto.

Mr. Zallie joined Ingredion in 2010 as part of the company’s acquisition of National Starch. Mr. Zallie had been c.e.o. of National Starch. He received master’s degrees in food science and business administration from Rutgers University and a bachelor’s of science in food science from Pennsylvania State University.

Ms. Reich’s appointment to Ingredion’s board of directors becomes effective Nov. 1. She also serves on the boards of H&R Block, Inc. and Ecolab, Inc. Previously she was senior vice-president and c.f.o. for United Stationers, Inc., a wholesale distributor of business products.