Philippe Rousseau, a seed industry veteran, was named Global Chief Executive Officer (Global CEO) for Verisem B.V., (Verisem), a Paine Schwartz Partners, LLC (Paine Schwartz Partners) portfolio company. Paine Schwartz Partners also announced that Verisem is the new name for its collection of specialty seed production companies, with operations in the Netherlands, France, Italy and the United States.
“We’re excited to welcome someone with Philippe’s talent and experience in operating across the complex global seed industry as we build the newly formed Verisem, a global leader in specialty seed production,” says Angelos Dassios, partner at Paine Schwartz Partners and a director with Verisem. “Philippe will play a critical role in Verisem’s success as we continue to develop the depth and breadth of Verisem’s production capabilities, global network and reach.”
Rousseau most recently led the sunflower and winter oilseed rape seeds business at Syngenta. Prior to that role, he held various commercial and marketing positions in the field crops seeds business at Syngenta, and developed key active ingredients for the company’s seed treatment business. Before his roles at Syngenta, he worked for Cargill Seeds and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.
As Global CEO, Rousseau will direct the operations of Verisem’s three primary companies: Brotherton Seed Company, Inc., Condor Seed Production, Inc., and Suba Seeds Co., as well as any future acquisitions or new business developments.
“I’m honored and excited to join this group of best-in-class seed production operations and I share Paine Schwartz Partners’ vision of establishing a true global leader in specialty seed production and distribution,” Rousseau said. “I look forward to working with the existing team to execute a global growth strategy, building on the company’s foundation of excellence in seedsmanship, production reliability and trusted industry partnerships.”
Supporting Rousseau, Giuseppe Tumedei will remain CEO of Suba Seeds Co. and recently hired Ron Amarel will continue in his role as managing director of the Americas. André Goig will continue to serve as Chairman of the Board.
Verisem, through its operating subsidiaries, produces a wide range of high-quality vegetable seeds, from carrots and coriander to beans, peas and broccoli. Learn more at www.verisemseeds.com.
