HELM Agro US, Inc. has hired Michael Hoger as its new national sales manager. Hoger has extensive experience in the crop protection sector, with a proven track record in national account and territory sales, market access strategies and management of cross-functional teams.
In his new role, Hoger will be responsible for the leadership, planning and execution of crop protection product sales and channel partner programs for Helm Agro US distributor, retailer and grower networks.
Hoger brings more than 30 years of agronomic experience to Helm. Most recently, he served as area sales manager for DuPont Crop Protection. Prior to that, Hoger was U.S. corn portfolio manager and key accounts manager for the same company. He also worked for CIBA-Novartis in various sales and marketing positions.
“Mike’s extensive background in sales, coupled with his passion for building strong marketplace relationships, makes him a valuable resource to our sales team and customers,” says Jan Stechmann, president of Helm Agro US. “Mike’s appointment is an excellent addition to the organization and in line with the future direction and growth of Helm here in the U.S.”
Hoger holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He also maintains the professional certification of Six Sigma Black Belt.
“With our regional sales managers all in place for the 2018 season, the company is well-positioned to implement its business strategy for faster market penetration and greater customer satisfaction,” says Stechmann.
Currently, Helm has one of the fastest-growing portfolios in the U.S. crop protection arena. In total, the company now has 19 products available for sales activities in the U.S. row crop, specialty crop and horticultural markets.
According to Stechmann, the company plans to add more offerings this year following anticipated EPA registration approvals.
Hoger resides in Clive, Iowa, and can be contacted via email at mhoger@helmagro.com.