After nearly 30 years of leading CropLife America, Jay Vroom is stepping down at the end of 2018.

“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 said. “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 16 Congresses were in office, CLA only grew its reputation as a resource in the agriculture sector.”

Vroom, who announced his retirement at the 2017 CLA Annual Meeting, said his future plans include spending more time on the family farm in Illinois as well as continuing to work on growing agricultural technology and improving farmer profitability.

“I cannot begin to express in words all the pride and gratitude I have for the many friends, co-workers and professional allies I have had the privilege to work with at CLA and in my earlier career,” Vroom said. “My wife, Jamie, and I appreciate the support you have given us over the years and we look forward to staying in touch.”

Diane Allemang, FMC  Global Director for Global Portfolio Strategy and outgoing CLA board chair, praised Vroom’s work.

“Jay is a passionate supporter of American agriculture and advocate for the crop protection industry,” she said. “He has worked tirelessly for almost 30 years guiding CropLife America to become a leading voice for modern agriculture, benefiting all in the agriculture community. Jay has left a lasting mark on the association, its members and Washington D.C.” 

Jim Blome, Bayer North America president and CEO of the crop science division and incoming CLA board chair, thanked Vroom for his work.

“Under Jay’s leadership, CropLife America has been a steady and credible voice championing the need for modern tools in agriculture to help farmers raise safe, affordable and nutritious food,” Blome said. “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. During that time, the CLA Board of Directors will work with a search firm to identify potential candidates for the next CEO of CropLife America.

Source: CropLife America