ROTTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS — Mayo Schmidt on Dec. 31 decided not to take the position of chief executive officer of Louis Dreyfus Commodities, six days before he was set to take the helm at the global merchandizer of commodities and processor of agricultural goods. Mr. Schmidt originally agreed to become the company’s new c.e.o. in late November, but following a more detailed analysis of the terms and conditions of their planned employment relationship, Louis Dreyfus Commodities and Mr. Schmidt jointly decided not to proceed with the engagement.

“On behalf of the entire Supervisory Board, I would like to wish Mayo Schmidt much success in his future endeavors,” said Margarita Louis-Dreyfus, chairperson of Louis Dreyfus Holding and deputy chairperson of Louis Dreyfus Commodities Holdings.

The search for the c.e.o. of Louis Dreyfus Commodities will resume immediately. In the meantime, Claude Ehlinger, deputy c.e.o., will continue to ensure the group’s operational leadership.