Bayer CropScience names new president

Jim Blome has been named Bayer CropScience’s president, CEO and head of crop protection for the North American region, effective July 1. Blome will succeed Bill Buckner, who will retire at the end of the year.

Previously, Blome was at Valent U.S.A. Corp., wholly owned by Sumitomo Chemical Co., where he most recently was executive vice president and chief operating officer.

"Jim’s depth of knowledge of the agricultural industry and his leadership experience will guide the North American business to a new level of success,” said Lykele van der Broek, global chief operating officer of Bayer CropScience.

Blome will relocate to Bayer CropScience’s North American headquarters in Research Triangle Park this summer. Buckner will support Blome in his transition during the summer months and focus on completing his term as chairman of the CropLife America board.

The company, headquartered in Monheim, Germany, is planning to spend $20 million on a 60,000-square-foot greenhouse in RTP to further its crop science research.