An executive with more than 30 years of experience in the energy commodity industry has been named to the board of directors of Tyson Foods Inc., company officials announced. Gaurdie E. Banister Jr., 54, has been selected as a new independent director on the Tyson board. He is currently the president and CEO of Aera Energy LLC, a $4 billion oil and gas producer that is jointly owned by Shell and ExxonMobil.

Banister began his career with Shell in 1980 and during his 27 years with the company was involved in such areas as strategic planning, information technology and acquisitions. He started as an offshore facilities engineer with the company and subsequently held a variety of executive level jobs including Technical Vice President for Shell International’s Asia Pacific region.

In 2007, Banister was named to his current position with Aera Energy, which is one of California’s largest oil and gas producers.

“We’re pleased the sitting CEO of a major company is joining our board,” said Tyson Foods Chairman John Tyson. “Gaurdie’s extensive leadership experience and his involvement in international business are among the key reasons why he was recommended by our nominating committee. We believe he’ll be an excellent addition to our board.”

Source: Tyson Foods Inc.