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Vroom Announces Retirement From CropLife America

Cindy Zimmerman

CropLife America will be in the market for a new president and CEO next year, as Jay Vroom has given notice that he will retire at the end of 2018, which will mark his 30th year at the helm of the organization.

Vroom announced his plans Monday during the general session at the 2017 CLA Annual Meeting in Dana Point, California. “When I stepped into this role in 1988, I don’t think I could have foreseen the challenges and triumphs the industry would encounter over the past three decades,” Vroom stated. “I’m proud to have represented the industry as we addressed important issues ranging from Farm Bills to the Food Quality Protection Act and ESA to PREA. No matter which of the six presidential administrations or sixteen congresses were in office, CLA only grew its reputation as a resource in the agriculture sector.”

Vroom plans to stay involved in agriculture after his retirement and spending more time on his family farms in Illinois.

“Jay is a passionate supporter of American agriculture and advocate for the crop protection industry,” said Diane Allemang, FMC Global Director for Global Portfolio Strategy and outgoing CLA board chair. “Jay has left a lasting mark on the association, its members and Washington D.C.”

Incoming CLA board chair Jim Blome, Bayer North America president and CEO of the crop science division, added, “The mission Jay stewarded for almost three decades is even more important and relevant for the future of our industry. We wish him well following his retirement as our CEO and look forward to building upon his important work in the years ahead.”

Vroom will continue to serve as president and CEO of CLA over the next twelve months and will assist with the transition through the end of 2018.

Ag Groups, Agribusiness