Ash Grove Cement Company has announced the promotion of J. Randall (Randy) Vance to President and COO, effective immediately. Mr Vance is promoted from his position of three years as Senior Vice President of Administration and CFO. In his new role, he will assume responsibility for manufacturing and sales of Ash Grove’s cement operations and will continue to lead the finance, accounting, risk management, information technology and HR departments.

Mr Vance, who joined Ash Grove from Interstate Bakeries Corporation, said: “It is a privilege to be selected to lead such a talented and dedicated team. Our focus on safety, quality and customer service is exceptional in the cement industry. I am eager to continue to grow our business as a supplier of choice.”

"Since joining Ash Grove, Randy has demonstrated outstanding leadership skills that fit well in the Ash Grove culture,” said Charles T. Sunderland, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer. “Randy brings a breadth of business experience to Ash Grove, which gives us confidence that he will be a catalyst in guiding the company’s performance.” Sunderland will continue in his present role. The company has launched a search for a new CFO.