PBI-Gordon announced that Dr. Jackie Applegate, the company’s current COO, will succeed Steve Clifford as President and CEO on Nov. 1, 2025. She will lead 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 Applegate.
The move comes as PBI-Gordon also announced the results of its multi-year strategic growth plan, which includes a nearly 60 percent increase in sales, an increased investment in research and development of nearly 150 percent, and more than a 50 percent increase in the number of employee-owners to over 630.
“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.”
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,” Applegate said. “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.”
PBI-Gordon Companies also announced new positions within the executive leadership team designed to propel the company into the next phase of growth and long-term success.
Scott Howard, who has been with the company for more than 18 years, has been appointed chief scientific and technical officer, where he will lead the development and execution of an R&D technology roadmap, ensuring the adoption of cutting-edge technologies to accelerate and optimize R&D efforts across the organization and subsidiaries.
Tim Demerath has been appointed to a newly formed role of Chief Transformation Officer responsible for leading enterprise-wide change initiatives that drive growth, operational excellence, and competitive advantage. Demerath has been with PBI-Gordon Corporation since 2019.
Joyce Lee has joined the company as the general manager/senior vice president for Pegasus Laboratories. A recognized leader in animal health, Lee has held executive leadership positions at Pfizer Animal Health, Zoetis, Elanco, and Cobb Vantress. In this role, Lee will oversee strategic operations, drive innovation, and strengthen collaboration between Pegasus Laboratories and TriviumVet.
In addition to a people investment, the company has made significant R&D investments, underscoring its commitment to delivering innovative solutions for its customers across its subsidiaries: PBI-Gordon Corporation, Pegasus Laboratories and Pet-Ag, Inc. This funding has accelerated new product development, increased and streamlined production capabilities, and enhanced the company’s ability to meet market demands.
Earlier this year, the company completed the acquisition of Trivium Vet, a strategic move that strengthens its commitment to advancing veterinary therapeutics and improving animal health worldwide. The move was the largest transaction in the company's 77-year history and includes the addition of an innovative new product, Felycin-CA1, to the Pegasus Laboratories/PRN Pharmacal portfolio of products.
The company’s Pegasus Laboratories/PRN Pharmacal subsidiary recently completed Phase I of a significant multi-year investment at its campus in Florida aimed at expanding warehousing, laboratory facilities, and high-tech manufacturing capabilities. This initiative will enhance operational efficiency and innovation and drive substantial job creation across the region.
