Scotts names new CFO

Marysville, Ohio-based Scotts Miracle-Gro named Larry Hilsheimer executive VP and chief financial officer, effective immediately.

Hilsheimer was executive VP and CFO of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co., the Columbus, Ohio-based insurance and financial services company, from 2007 through 2009. He then served as president and chief operating officer of Nationwide Direct & Customer Solutions, and most recently was president and chief operating officer of Nationwide Retirement Plans.

"To add someone with Larry's strong financial pedigree and broad business background to our executive leadership team is an enormous win for ScottsMiracle-Gro and its shareholders," said Jim Hagedorn, chairman and CEO. "His leadership skills will bolster an already strong finance organization and his business insights and experience will make us a stronger and smarter company. I welcome him to the Scotts Miracle-Gro family and look forward to a strong partnership."

In his role at Scotts Miracle-Gro, Hilsheimer will oversee all corporate and operating finance functions.

Hilsheimer will replace Dave Evans, who left Scotts March 1 to join Columbus-based Battelle.

Prior to Nationwide, Hilsheimer was vice chairman and regional managing partner for Deloitte & Touche USA, and served on the board of directors of the Deloitte Foundation. Hilsheimer received his bachelor's degree in business administration with a major in accounting from the Fisher College of Business at The Ohio State University and his law degree from Capital University Law School.

"I have maintained relationships with management of Scotts Miracle-Gro since the mid-1980s," Hilsheimer said. "I have long admired the commitment of the company to providing excellent products to help consumers enjoy beautiful lawns and gardens, and I am excited to become a member of the team."