Roger Claessens, currently director of innovation for Marel Poultry, will succeed Anton “Ton” de Weerd as the company’s executive vice president of Marel Poultry, effective September 1.
Following the transition period, de Weerd will remain with the company, headquartered in Boxmeer, the Netherlands, in a new capacity.
About Roger Claessens
During his 18-year career at Marel, Claessens has gained extensive management experience and demonstrated excellent leadership qualities, the company stated in a press release. In his role as director of innovation over the past five years, he has successfully headed up Marel's innovations for the poultry industry. Claessens is 43 years old and lives in Malden, the Netherlands. He graduated in with an MSc degree in agricultural engineering at the WUR in Wageningen.
“We are delighted that Roger has accepted this role. He has clearly demonstrated both leadership talent and technical capacities,” said Árni Oddur Thórdarson, CEO of Marel. “Under his direction, the Marel innovation team has constantly introduced new products, systems and solutions that have transformed the poultry industry. I warmly welcome Roger on board as executive vice president of Marel Poultry and a member of the executive team."
Solid performance under de Weerd’s guidance
Over 37 years, Anton de Weerd, 61, has become almost the personification of Marel Poultry, Thórdarson stated in the press release.
“I would like to sincerely thank Ton for his extraordinary contribution to Marel's success over the years,” said Thórdarson.
“It has been really enjoyable to work with him on all the revolutions we have realized in the poultry industry. During his 37-year career at Marel, Ton has been a truly valuable member of the team who played a key role in delivering solid operational performance. Thanks to Ton, Marel Poultry is well positioned for the future and fully prepared to handle the expected growth. That is why I am pleased that Marel will continue to benefit from his vast experience and business insights.”