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| Best of NAMA 2025 |
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DR. JACKIE APPLEGATE PROMOTED TO CEO OF PBI-GORDON
Dec. 1, 2025
Source: PBI-Gordon news release
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| LinkedIn | | Dr. Applegate |
Shawnee, Kansas - PBI-Gordon Companies, Inc. today announced that its multi-year strategic growth plan is delivering exceptional results, including an increase in sales of nearly 60%, increased investment in research and development of nearly 150%, and more than a 50% increase in the number of employee-owners to over 630.
As part of the strategic growth plan, on November 1, 2025, Dr. Jacqueline (Jackie) Applegate, who currently serves as Chief Operating Officer, as planned, will succeed Steve Clifford as President and CEO, leading PBI-Gordon Companies, Inc. and its subsidiaries--PBI-Gordon Corporation, Pegasus Laboratories, TriviumVet and Pet-Ag, Inc. The COO position will not be filled, rather each of the businesses will report to Dr. Applegate.
"Steve's visionary approach and unwavering leadership have not only guided PBI-Gordon Companies through periods of significant growth and transformation but have also laid a strong foundation for long-term success," said Donald A. Chew, Executive Chairman of PBI-Gordon Companies. "Steve's ability to inspire teams, drive strategic initiatives, and navigate complex industry challenges has elevated our organization to new heights. We are profoundly grateful for his exceptional service and lasting contributions during his tenure."
Clifford added, "It has been a privilege to serve this company and our exceptional employee-owners. Working closely with our Board, we undertook a rigorous and thoughtful process to identify the right leader to guide PBI-Gordon Companies into its next chapter. Dr. Applegate's proven track record, strategic vision, and deep understanding of our industry made her the clear choice, and I have every confidence she will position the company for even greater success."
Dr. Applegate joined PBI-Gordon Companies as COO in July of 2024, after spending 32 years at Bayer with extensive experience in global agribusiness, animal health, and specialty markets. In her new role, she will focus on advancing the company's leadership position in the specialty turf and ornamental, animal health, and pet care markets.
"I am honored to lead PBI-Gordon Companies and build on the strong foundation Steve has established," said Dr. Applegate. "Our talented team is dedicated to delivering trusted solutions that enhance our communities and the lives of our people and pets, and I'm excited about the opportunities ahead."
About PBI-Gordon Companies
PBI-Gordon Companies has been in business in the Kansas City metro area since 1947 and is 100 percent employee-owned. It is the parent company to four subsidiaries which develop, manufacture, and market leading products for Turf and Ornamental Industries (PBI-Gordon Corporation), Companion Animal Pharmaceuticals (Pegasus Laboratories & TriviumVet), and Companion Animal Nutritional Supplements and Grooming Supplies (PetAg).
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