WASHINGTON— World Food Program USA (WFP USA) has named Pilar Cruz, corporate senior vice president and chief sustainability officer for Cargill, to its board of directors, Cargill announced June 23.

World Food Program USA has grown dynamically in recent years to meet the urgent needs of the United Nations World Food Programme. As part of that growth, it has strategically sought to expand its board of directors with industry leaders within their respective fields.

“More than 800 million people are facing severe food insecurity across the globe right now, far greater demand than we can currently meet,” said Randy Russell, board chair for WFP USA. “It is essential that we bring the right partners to the table to generate critical funding and create joint solutions.”

Cruz is responsible for leading Cargill’s efforts to drive transformational change in delivering sustainable supply chains for customers around the globe, while leveraging agriculture to achieve the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Cruz also oversees Cargill’s global communications and corporate responsibility functions, which includes advancing partnerships to accelerate progress on climate, food security, human rights, equity and inclusion, and farmer livelihoods. 

Based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, US, Cargill is a longtime partner of World Food Program USA, supporting school meal programs, farmer training and emergency relief efforts.

“World Food Program USA has worked tirelessly to alleviate global hunger,” Cruz said. “I am honored to partner with this incredible organization as a member of the board of directors and further advance their mission. For over 20 years, Cargill and WFP USA have led efforts that address food insecurity and improve farmer livelihoods around the world. Together, we will continue to work toward sustainable solutions that end hunger and malnutrition, so every family in need has access to safe, nutritious and affordable food.”