Compass Minerals is pleased to announce the following director-level hires across the company: 

• The Plant Nutrition Division added David Hernandez to the team as director of research and alliances. Hernandez, based at the Overland Park, Kan. office, will lead the Division’s global research partnership activities and manage initiatives related to global regulatory developments. Prior to joining Compass Minerals, Hernandez worked for Arysta LifeScience as global development manager for biostimulants and value-added nutrients. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Agronomy from Central University of Venezuela, a Master of Science Degree in Agronomy from Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa, and a doctorate in soil science and nutrient management from Iowa State University.
• Chris Heywood joined Compass Minerals, U.K. as head of sales and logistics. Heywood will lead the U.K. commercial, logistics and customer service departments, and develop the commercial strategy and objectives for the U.K. salt business. Prior to joining Compass Minerals, Heywood was general manager at Air Liquide UK Ltd. He has a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and a Master of Business Administration from Manchester University.
• Victor Toneatti has been named director of sales for Canada and is based in the Mississauga, Ontario, office. Toneatti will be responsible for setting and executing the strategy for the highway deicing business in Canada. Before joining Compass Minerals, he was with Opta Minerals Inc. and prior to that, he spent 15 years working at Lafarge North America. Toneatti earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Economics and his MBA at the University of Windsor in Canada.

“We’re excited about the company’s growth and the breadth of experience our new team members bring,” said Steve Berger, senior vice president over human resources. “Team additions like these help us improve our capability to execute and deliver the quality, consistency and reliability on which our customers rely.”