PBI-Gordon names new CEO and executive leaders
As part of PBI-Gordon’s strategic growth plan, Jacqueline (Jackie) Applegate, Ph.D., the company’s current chief operating officer, will succeed Steve Clifford as president and CEO on Nov. 1, 2025. She will lead PBI-Gordon Companies and its subsidiaries — PBI-Gordon Corporation, Pegasus Laboratories, TriviumVet and Pet-Ag. The COO position will not be filled; rather, each of the businesses will report to Applegate.
“Steve’s visionary approach and unwavering leadership have not only guided PBI-Gordon Companies through periods of significant growth and transformation but have also laid a strong foundation for long-term success,” said Donald Chew, executive chairman of PBI-Gordon Companies. “Steve’s ability to inspire teams, drive strategic initiatives and navigate complex industry challenges has elevated our organization to new heights. We are profoundly grateful for his exceptional service and lasting contributions during his tenure.
“It has been a privilege to serve this company and our exceptional employee-owners,” Clifford continued. “Working closely with our board, we undertook a rigorous and thoughtful process to identify the right leader to guide PBI-Gordon Companies into its next chapter. Dr. Applegate’s proven track record, strategic vision and deep understanding of our industry made her the clear choice, and I have every confidence she will position the company for even greater success.”
Applegate joined PBI-Gordon Companies as COO in July of 2024, after spending 32 years at Bayer with extensive experience in global agribusiness, animal health and specialty markets. In her new role, she will focus on advancing the company’s leadership position in the specialty turf and ornamental, animal health and pet care markets.
“I am honored to lead PBI-Gordon Companies and build on the strong foundation Steve has established,” said Applegate. “Our talented team is dedicated to delivering trusted solutions that enhance our communities and the lives of our people and pets, and I’m excited about the opportunities ahead.”
Next-phase leadership changes
PBI-Gordon Companies also announced new positions within the executive leadership team designed to propel the company into the next phase of growth and long-term success. These strategic appointments align leadership talent with critical business priorities and ensure the company is well-equipped to continue to accelerate innovation, strengthen operations and drive sustained performance in a competitive market, according to PBI-Gordon.
- Scott Howard, who has been with the company for more than 18 years, has been appointed chief scientific and technical officer, where he will lead the development and execution of an R&D technology roadmap, ensuring the adoption of cutting-edge technologies to accelerate and optimize R&D efforts across the organization and subsidiaries.
- Tim Demerath has been appointed to a newly formed role of chief transformation officer responsible for leading enterprise-wide change initiatives that drive growth, operational excellence and competitive advantage. Demerath has been with PBI-Gordon Corporation since 2019.
- Joyce Lee has joined the company as the general manager/senior vice president for Pegasus Laboratories. A recognized leader in animal health, Lee has held executive leadership positions at Pfizer Animal Health, Zoetis, Elanco and Cobb Vantress. In this role, Lee will oversee strategic operations, drive innovation and strengthen collaboration between Pegasus Laboratories and TriviumVet.
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