Barenbrug USA appoints CEO
Grass seed firm Barenbrug USA, based in Tangent, Oregon, has appointed Justin Burns as its CEO.
“We know that Justin is well-prepared to take on this role and continue to lead our organization forward. We are confident that, under his leadership, Barenbrug will continue growing its presence in the U.S. market and delivering on our ambitions,” said Martin Bijl, member of the board of directors of parent firm The Royal Barenbrug Group.
Burns has been with Barenbrug USA for 11 years and has held a variety of management positions within the company, including forage sales manager, VP of marketing and sales, and VP of sales pro divisions. [Read more about the Barenbrug two-brand strategy.]
“I’m excited for the next chapter and the opportunity to lead Barenbrug USA into the future. Together with my talented Barenbrug colleagues, we will continue to offer customers the high-quality, innovative, and cost-effective solutions we’re known for,” said Burns.
The current CEO, James Schneider, will leave Barenbrug on June 1.
Schneider has overseen a period of significant expansion for Barenbrug USA. Highlights of his tenure include the acquisition of Jacklin Seed, the implementation of the added-value growth strategy, and the expansion of the company’s R&D program.
“It’s been an honor to work with James Schneider over the years. His leadership and dedication to our company and the seed industry have made a lasting impact on our organization,” said Burns.
Schneider said, “it has been the privilege of a lifetime to get to know so many of our suppliers, growers, distributors, retailers, and sod farms over the past ten years.”
“James has been an inspiring leader for the past 10 years, and we are grateful for his many contributions,” said Bijl.
Parent company Royal Barenbrug Group, headquartered in the Netherlands, has a 115-year history, and is a fourth-generation, family-owned company dedicated to the research, development and production of grass seeds and legumes for agricultural and recreational markets. The firm has 900 employees in more than 20 countries.
