AgReliant Genetics names Mark Herrmann as president and CEO beginning Jan. 1, 2016. He replaces Craig Newman.
This transition comes after Newman’s announcement to step down at the first of the year after 37 years in the seed industry and an exceptional career with AgReliant Genetics. Since the company was formed in 2000, its corn unit volume has tripled, making it the third largest corn seed company in North America.
“Mark brings a broad knowledge of the seeds business and excellent personal skills that will help AgReliant to continue its growth, as well as build and foster strong relationships with farmers, employees and business partners,” said Adrian Huige, Chairman of AgReliant’s Members Committee.
Since 2011, Herrmann has been based in Oxnard, California as North America Commercial Lead for Monsanto Vegetables, leading the Seminis and DeRuiter brands’ business.
“I have greatly valued a career in the seed business that has offered numerous opportunities and responsibilities to understand and positively impact business processes and directly focused on increasing the success of farmers,” said Herrmann. “I have always found it very rewarding to work in an industry that is so directly connected to our customers. I am excited to continue that effort as part of the AgReliant Genetics team.”
Herrmann started his career in the seed business in 1984 as a district sales manager for DEKALB Pfizer Genetics and held roles of progressive responsibility in sales, sales management, marketing management and as director DEKALB Corn Business. In 1998 when Monsanto purchased DEKALB Genetics, Mark moved to St. Louis as director US seed and biotech traits and from 2006 to 2011 held roles of increasing responsibility as President – Corn States LLC, and then Director – US Tech Development.
Mark has been actively involved with the America Seed Trade Association Board since 2010 and is currently the first vice chair.
