Scotts names new COO
Scotts Miracle-Gro has named Nate Baxter, 50, EVP of technology and operations, its new chief operating officer.
“Since joining our company earlier this year, Nate has demonstrated a willingness to step up and make an impact while building important relationships inside and outside our organization,” said Jim Hagedorn, chairman and CEO.
In his new role at the Marysville, Ohio-based lawn and garden care company, he additionally will be responsible for supply chain, sales and marketing.
Under a plan approved by the firm’s board and agreed upon by Hagedorn, Mike Lukemire, president and COO, will prepare for retirement.
Lukemire, 65, has been with the company for almost 28 years, serving as president since February 2016 and COO since January 2015. He continues reporting to Hagedorn.
About Lukemire, Hagedorn said, “I appreciate his long-standing partnership in which we together have navigated the company through times of prosperity, challenging periods and an unprecedented pandemic.”
Hagedorn said, “his pragmatic, inspirational and results-focused leadership will help facilitate a smooth transition for Nate among all our stakeholders.”
Baxter joined the company on April 28, 2023, to oversee research and development, information technology, regulatory, quality and environmental health and safety.
He previously was president of TEL U.S., a Tokyo Electron Ltd. subsidiary that manufactures semiconductor and flat panel manufacturing equipment, where he led development, production, sales and marketing.
Baxter also worked with Intel Corporation in technology, supply chain, strategy and management.
Baxter’s leadership skills and experience in all aspects of operations, said Hagedorn, “will be an asset in his expanded role.
“When coupled with his deep knowledge of our business through his membership in the Hagedorn Partnership, I am confident in his future success as COO and one of our next-generation leaders.”
