Crop Solutions 2009 Ltd announces Martin Riegel as new CEO

1 September, 2011

Crop Solutions 2009 Ltd announces appointment of Martin Riegel as new CEO

Crop Solutions 2009 Ltd, the award-winning New Zealand bio-tech company, has announced the appointment of a new Chief Executive, Martin Riegel, in a move that strengthens the company’s global profile as it gears up for overseas growth.

Headquartered in Pukekohe, Crop Solutions, conducts pioneering work in the global development of bio control solutions for crops and pests, in partnership with growers and international clients.

Formed in 2009 and winner of the 2010 prestigious University of Auckland Business School Entrepreneurship Challenge, Crop Solutions develops and markets innovative bio control products including insecticides, fungicides, bactericide, phytoplasma control, growth regulators, and molluscicides and is an industry leader in effective, sustainable solutions for horticulture.

John Judge, Chairman of Crop Solutions, said the timing was right for the new appointment as the company looks to expand into new markets and secure overseas investment. “Martin brings a wealth of international experience working in high growth technology companies. His expertise and track record in growing companies, building teams and establishing good corporate governance practices will ensure the company’s competitiveness as we look to expand globally.”

Martin Riegel said he was excited to be appointed to lead the Crop Solutions into this next phase. “With increasing resistance to traditional methods of insect pest and disease control, I believe that biotech and green tech need to provide a sustainable future for the agriculture and food industries. New Zealand is extremely well placed to lead the way in this area.”

“I have a long held interest in innovative technology and its commercialisation, and working with Crop Solution visionary team, I intend to continue building up the market here, while actively pursing expansion plans around the globe.”

Martin’s previous role as COO and CFO for NextWindow Limited, one of New Zealand’s fastest growing companies, saw him playing a lead role in the sale and successful investor exit of the company in 2010. Prior to NextWindow, Martin served as a senior executive at a number of US and New Zealand-based technology companies as well as 10 years at Intel Corporation.

During his career, Martin has raised $100M US in equity and debt from venture capital, strategic investors, banks and other sources. Martin currently serves on the boards of Kiwi Semiconductor as Independent Director and Chairman, and Kahne Limited as an Independent Director. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Notre Dame and an MBA from Indiana University.

Martin takes over the running of Crop Solutions from Managing Director Geoff Smith, who has played an integral role in the operation of the business over the last 18 months. Geoff who is a shareholder, will continue as a director of the company.

ENDS

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