Paul E. Schickler

WILMINGTON, DELAWARE, U.S. —DuPont Pioneer has announced the retirement of its president, Paul E. Schickler, effective Jan. 2, 2017.

"We cannot thank Paul enough for his substantial and enduring contributions to advancing production agriculture over his more than four decades-long career," said James C. Collins, executive vice-president at DuPont. "Paul has always operated with the customer in mind, and his intense customer focus has created significant value for countless growers and for DuPont. On behalf of the entire DuPont organization, we extend our best wishes and sincere thanks to Paul."

Schickler began his career with Pioneer in 1974. Since joining the company, he has held a variety of finance and administrative leadership roles throughout the business, including leading the business in Latin America from 1999-02. He was subsequently named vice-president of international operations, and in October 2007 he was named president of DuPont Pioneer. He is a member of the DuPont Operating Team. Schickler is a graduate of Drake University, where he received a bachelor’s of science degree and master’s degree in business administration.

"I feel fortunate to have spent my career helping farmers become more productive, while advancing one of the leading brands in agriculture," Schickler said. "Having played an active role in the merger planning process and in setting the direction for the combined Ag division, I am confident that the merger with Dow sets a strong foundation for the intended Ag Company to deliver innovative solutions to farmers, greater choice, and competitive price for value, while helping to address some of the world's most urgent challenges. I look forward to what the combined company will do to deliver on the potential of production agriculture."

The company is currently in the works of a proposed merger with The Dow Chemical Co. The two U.S.-based companies first announced plans to merge in December 2015, and in July received the go-ahead from stockholders of both companies. The European Commission on Aug. 11 said it has opened an in-depth probe to assess whether the proposed merger is in line with E.U. merger regulations. Specifically, the Commission said it plans to investigate whether the deal may reduce competition in areas such as crop protection, seeds and further petrochemicals. The Commission said it has 90 working days, until Dec. 20, 2016, to make a decision on the proposed merger.

DuPont, established in 1802, believes that by collaborating with customers, governments, NGOs, and thought leaders, it can help find solutions to such global challenges as providing enough healthy food for people everywhere, decreasing dependence on fossil fuels, and protecting life and the environment.