Bayer CropScience appoints new managers for the North American Turf and Ornamentals business

Environmental Science, a division of Bayer CropScience LP, recently announced the appointment of John Wendorf as market segment manager, and Wes Kleffner as area sales manager, for the North American Turf and Ornamentals business.

Based in Research Triangle Park, N.C., Wendorf will focus on business development and strategy to support the growth of Bayer’s portfolio of T&O solutions for professional land care managers and consumers.

“Bayer has a rich history of leadership and innovation in the areas of plant, animal and human health,” said Wendorf. “I’m excited to be a part of this dynamic team, and I look forward to contributing to Bayer’s strategy for helping customers care for and protect our green spaces both today and in the future.”

Kleffner serves the Kansas, Missouri and Colorado markets, and will be responsible for driving sales of assigned accounts and distributor branches, as well as building and maintaining relationships with key end users.

“I’m excited to build new relationships and help turf managers achieve their business goals,” said Kleffner. “I look forward to being part of an organization that continuously develops new solutions that help ensure a healthy future for the industry.”

Wendorf brings more than 20 years of T&O industry experience to his new role, with particular expertise in the area of ornamentals. He most recently served as vice president for the grower division of a horticultural distributor, where he managed the division’s marketing efforts across eight business segments. Prior to his work at the distributor level, Wendorf held several sales and marketing roles in the T&O industry.

Kleffner’s expertise comprises more than a decade of turf management experience in both the lawn and golf markets. In his most recent role as turf manager for Ryan Lawn and Tree, Kleffner managed a team of lawn care professionals servicing hundreds of residential and commercial lawn care customers throughout the Midwest. He previously served as an assistant golf course superintendent at The Club at Hokulia.

“As Bayer continues to bring new science to the marketplace, John’s strategic vision and Wes’ on-the-ground expertise will help strengthen our ability to meet the evolving needs of our customers and expand Bayer’s role as the market leader in the T&O industry,” said Mark Schneid, chief marketing officer for the Environmental Science division North America. “We are excited to welcome John and Wes to our growing team of world-class turf and ornamentals professionals.”
Wendorf holds a Bachelor of Science in Horticulture from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and a Master of Business Administration from Texas A&M University. Kleffner holds a Bachelor of Science in Golf Course Management, with a minor in Business Administration, from Kansas State University.