Jay Vroom Announces Retirement from CropLife America

Jay Vroom announced during the general session at the 2017 CLA Annual Meeting in Dana Point, California, that he would be retiring from his position as president and CEO at the end of 2018. After nearly thirty years at the helm, Vroom reflected on his tenure and plans moving forward.

“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 continued, “After I retire as CLA CEO, I plan to stay involved in agriculture and work on the critical issues of growing agriculture technology and improving profitability for American farmers. I am also looking forward to spending more time on our family farms in Illinois.” After talking about his future plans, Jay took a moment to reflect, “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. 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 recognized Jay’s work, “Jay is a passionate supporter of American agriculture and advocate for the crop protection industry.  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 added, “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. 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.”

Mr. 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. Prior to the announcement of the selected search firm, please direct all inquiries and expression of interest to William Kuckuck, COO, CropLife America.