CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Chiquita Brands International, Inc. has named Edward F. Lonergan as president and chief executive officer, effective Oct. 8.

Mr. Lonergan most recently was president and chief executive officer of Diversey, Inc., a provider of sustainable cleaning, sanitation and hygiene solutions. He replaces Fernando Aguirre, who previously announced plans to step down from being chairman, president and chief executive officer.

“We are extremely pleased to announce that after a thorough search process the board has chosen Ed Lonergan as its next president and chief executive officer,” said Kerrii B. Anderson, Chiquita's chairwoman. “Ed brings more than 30 years of leadership experience across many industries and is widely recognized as an outstanding business leader with an impressive track record of success. Ed's leadership and operational expertise ideally suit him to lead Chiquita in its next phase of growth. I look forward to working closely with Ed as we continue to execute our strategic priorities and create stockholder value.”

Mr. Lonergan also was appointed to the company’s board of directors.