Executive leadership changes at ScottsMiracle-Gro

MARYSVILLE, Ohio — The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company has named Ivan Smith as EVP, general counsel and corporate secretary. The 10-year veteran of the company replaces former EVP Vincent Brockman, who resigned to "pursue other interests."

"Ivan possesses tremendous legal knowledge and experience and has been a strong leader throughout his career," said Jim Hagedorn, chairman and CEO. "His sound judgment and business acumen will serve ScottsMiracle-Gro well in the years to come."

In his new position, Smith will have overall leadership responsibility for the company's global legal function and activities. Since 2009, he has served as assistant general counsel and VP. In this role, Smith provided counsel for the company's global consumer segment. Smith joined ScottsMiracle-Gro in 2003 as associate general counsel and director of litigation.

"Ivan is highly regarded by our operators for his extensive knowledge of the business," said Barry Sanders, president and COO. "They rely on his counsel on all aspects of operations, including major transactions, partnerships and sales and marketing activities."

Prior to joining the company, Smith was a litigator with the international law firm Jones Day. He received a bachelor's degree from Miami University and received his Juris Doctorate degree from The Ohio State University. He lives in Westerville with his wife and two children.

"Since joining us in 2002, Vince has provided valuable counsel and direction of our legal and compliance efforts," said Hagedorn. "I thank him for the contributions he provided to ScottsMiracle-Gro and our shareholders during his years of outstanding service, and I wish him and his family well."

With more than $2.8 billion in worldwide sales, The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, through its wholly owned subsidiary, The Scotts Company, is the world's largest marketer of branded consumer products for lawn and garden care. The company's brands in the U.S. include Scotts, Miracle-Gro and Ortho. Its consumer Roundup brand is marketed in North America and most of Europe exclusively by Scotts and owned by Monsanto. In the U.S., the company operates Scotts LawnService, the second largest residential lawn care service business. In Europe, the company's brands include Weedol, Pathclear, Evergreen, Levington, Miracle-Gro, KB, Fertiligene and Substral.