Seed Industry Leader Retires
After nearly 40 years at Pioneer Seeds in Australia, Peter Kleinhanss, a seasoned industry leader, announced his retirement effective at the end of 2023.
Peter Kleinhanss (pictured with Will Yates, Managing Director of GenTech Seeds), seed industry stalwart with a career nudging forty years of dedicated service to Pioneer brand Seeds in Australia, recently announced his retirement effective at the end of 2023.
Peter began his career with the company in 1984 when Pioneer Seeds was based at Kingaroy in Queensland. In the years since then he served in a variety of roles including in research, agronomy, sales, and has held the position of CEO since 2013.
Reflecting on his time in the seed sector, Peter said “It has been a pleasure and privilege to spend my career with Pioneer Seeds in Australia.
“I have always been and continue to be proud of the team and exceptional products and service they provide our customers.
“All the wonderful people I have worked alongside through the years, including colleagues in the business, industry associates and growers all around the country, have made my journey a very enjoyable and happy one to remember.”
Will Yates, Managing Director of GenTech Seeds (which produces and distributes Pioneer brand Seeds in Australia), paid tribute to Peter’s impact on the seed industry. “Over his career Pete has actively contributed to improving the productivity of growers in Australia.
“He has always had customers and staff front of mind, and this focus has created significant value and opportunity for resellers, growers, employees, and the wider industry.
“Since our family acquired the Pioneer Seeds business and formed GenTech Seeds in 2016, Pete has played a key role in setting direction for the business. His guidance has helped the new business build on the strong foundations of the Pioneer brand and ensure it has continued delivering new and innovative products and solutions to farmers and the wider industry.”
“On behalf of the GenTech Seeds board, staff, and Yates family we acknowledge Pete for his substantial and enduring contributions to the Pioneer brand and Australian agriculture during his lengthy and distinguished career, and we all extend our very best wishes and hearty thanks to him on his retirement.”
With Peter’s retirement, the role of leading GenTech Seeds passes to Managing Director Will Yates.