Barenbrug appoints new European Product Development Manager

BARENBRUG APPOINTS NEW EUROPEAN PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT MANAGER



For the last three years Gerard has been research director for Barenbrug USA, where he set up a testing facility and research department in Virginia. Previously he spent 10 years as head of the company's Dutch research department. He will now be based at Barenbrug's headquarters in the Netherlands, with responsibility for the process of innovation and product development of grass species, varieties and specific mixtures. He will also play an active role in the introduction of new products for the international market.

"I am delighted to be working for Barenbrug in Europe again, and to have an exciting new challenge of developing new products," said Gerard. "I feel very strongly that Barenbrug has its focus on innovation and offers more than just a bag of grass seed. It specialises in creating products that meet specific needs, such as fast-establishing varieties for overseeing, or fine, dense types for the golf market. And in problem areas that get a lot of wear or shade, or too much salt, we have various solutions. I'm looking forward to continuing this challenging work.

"Developing new varieties is a fascinating process," added Gerard, "and it's so interesting to work with new species such as crested or tufted hairgrass. At Barenbrug we continually look at new species as they can help us to give the customer the solution to their problems."

Commenting on the appointment, Barenbrug UK managing director Paul Johnson said: "Having Gerard on board is an important addition to Barenbrug's UK operation. The expertise and advice he can provide will help to continually improve the total package of services we offer to UK customers."

Gerard is married to Marieke and has a seven-year-old daughter, Annemiek and a 17-month-old son, Jack.