(Des Moines) John Deere production testing jobs will be moved from two Iowa plants to other parts of the state and Illinois.
The company recently confirmed that jobs at its Ottumwa and Des Moines plants will be moved, but has not identified how many employees will be affected.
Officials say it depends on several factors, including production volume and employee turnover, as some employees will have the option to relocate to other Deere facilities where similar testing is done.
The change is designed to reduce overhead costs and improve efficiency, with the transition happening gradually through the 2026 fiscal year.
The announcement comes as 101 workers at the Waterloo plant are set to be laid off tomorrow amid decreased demand and lower order volumes.
In early September, Deere & Company, in a news release, announced key leadership changes as it continues to advance its Smart Industrial Strategy to deliver intelligent, connected machines and solutions that enhance customer economic value.
“We’re focused on building an experienced, purpose-driven leadership team dedicated to improving our customers’ success,” said John May, chairman and CEO of Deere & Company. “Each of these leaders brings extensive expertise, a shared vision for innovation, and a deep commitment to delivering value to our customers worldwide.“
Effective November 3, Deanna Kovar has been appointed president, Worldwide Agriculture & Turf Division: Production and Precision Ag, as well as the Americas and Australia markets. In this role, she will have responsibility for major equipment and technology solutions for production-scale agriculture, including large tractors, as well as harvesting and crop care equipment. Kovar was previously president of the company’s Small Ag & Turf business.
Justin Rose will assume the role of president, Worldwide Agriculture & Turf Division: Small Agriculture and Turf, including responsibility for the Europe, Africa, and Asia markets. Rose will be responsible for equipment and technology solutions tailored to support small agricultural and turf customers worldwide, including small tractors, compact utility tractors, hay and forage equipment, and turf care equipment. He recently served as president of Lifecycle Solutions, Supply Management, and Customer Success for Deere.
In addition, Cory Reed has been named president, Lifecycle Solutions, Supply Management, and Customer Success. Reed will manage Deere’s global aftermarket, customer support, supply chain, precision upgrade, and business transformation initiatives, focusing on delivering exceptional value and support for customers worldwide. Previously, he was president of the company’s Production and Precision Ag business.
