OCP Nutricrops names Faris Derrij as Chairman and CEO
The company names new leadership as it moves ahead with its global growth plans.
MOROCCO – OCP Nutricrops has named Faris Derrij as its new Chairman and CEO, replacing Youssef El Bari, who held the role since October 2024.
The company’s Board of Directors confirmed the appointment on Monday, marking a leadership change at a time when the fertilizer unit continues to expand its global reach.
Derrij takes over after serving as Managing Director of the Strategic Business Unit Mining within the OCP Group. The company said his experience across different roles gives him a broad understanding of the business.
In a statement, OCP Nutricrops thanked the outgoing CEO for his service. “Mr. Youssef El Bari led the General Management with commitment and agility,” the company said.
Reports indicate that El Bari has moved to a new role within the wider OCP Group, although the company has not shared further details.
The board linked Derrij’s appointment to the company’s ongoing plans. It said the new leadership will help strengthen its position in plant nutrition and soil health.
Expansion plans move forward
The leadership change comes as OCP Nutricrops pushes ahead with its international expansion.
Earlier this month, the Moroccan government approved the creation of new subsidiaries in France and India. The move supports the group’s efforts to grow in major agricultural markets.
In France, the company will set up a new unit with a capital of €26 million, about $28 million. This branch will manage marketing across Europe and develop fertilizer products suited to local soil and crop needs.
“The new company will be tasked with coordinating marketing activities in Europe and developing specialized fertilization products,” an official statement said.
The company will also launch a subsidiary in India. This unit will focus on producing and selling fertilizers designed for local farming conditions, while also supporting exports and research.
“This presence will strengthen proximity to fertilizer consumers and improve commercial responsiveness,” the government said in its decree.
India remains one of the largest fertilizer markets in the world, while Europe continues to demand more sustainable farming inputs.
OCP Nutricrops focuses on producing and marketing phosphate-based fertilizers. The company sees these new markets as key to its next phase of growth.
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