DLF announced the retirement of seed industry veteran Bill Dunn effective Dec. 31.
Dunn has been instrumental in the evolution of the company in North America, starting with Seed Research of Oregon 23 years ago in the aftermath of the ABT bankruptcy. As a sales leader, he led his groups through several acquisitions while continuing to build presence in both domestic and international markets.
“I am proud that Seed Research of Oregon remains a valued brand within the DLF portfolio and is supported by the most knowledgeable group in the industry,” Dunn said.
Dunn originally planned to retire in 2022, but he eventually agreed to stay an extra year and help lead the company’s bentgrass production in the Willamette Valley.
“Building relationships is essentially a sales function, whether it’s with customers or growers,” Dunn said. “You need to figure out the best way to communicate with people, and be responsive, honest and respectful.”
Dunn has been a leader throughout his career. He is a past president of the Atlantic Seed Association (2001), Oregon Seed Trade Association (2011) and Oregon Seed Council (2013). He began his career with eight years in sales at Rockland Chemical covering New York and New Jersey before becoming sales manager for Lofts Seed. Five years later, Dunn joined ZAJAC Performance Seed, where he worked five years as national accounts manager before returning to Lofts Seed, which had been purchased by ABT, the company that sent him to Oregon.
He has also been a trusted advisor and mentor at DLF. “I’ve enjoyed watching talented people in our company grow their careers and be in a position to provide guidance and support when they needed it,” Dunn said. “I certainly had a lot of great mentors and people who helped me along the way.”
Knowing DLF is in good hands made the decision to retire much easier. He pointed to improved turnaround times for customers and a renewed focus on the entire supply chain as positive signs for the future.
“The recent investments by DLF have been strategic, and the new leaders’ approach shows everyone is valued,” Dunn said. “I feel confident about the company going forward.”
There are many at DLF who have engaged in Dunn’s transition over the last year to ensure that his knowledge and expertise are transferred effectively. DLF will carry on his legacy in the professional turf market under the leadership of Sean Chaney, vice president of U.S. wholesale, along with its professional turf experts across all regions of the U.S.
