Corteva has announced that James C. Collins, Jr., Chief Executive Officer (CEO), will retire from Corteva, effective December 31, 2021, after more than 37 years with the company and its predecessor, DuPont.

Collins has agreed to continue in his role as CEO while an external search for his successor is underway.

"Over the past several years, Jim guided the creation and launch of Corteva as a leading, independent global agriculture company and he will leave the company on a very strong footing,” said Greg Page, Independent Chairman of Corteva.

“The Board and I are grateful for everything Jim accomplished for our company, its employees and customers, and our shareholders. Through Jim’s contributions, the company is well positioned to continue strong forward momentum looking ahead. We will begin the search for Jim’s successor immediately and appreciate his willingness to remain in place to assure a smooth transition,” added Page.

“It has been the privilege of a lifetime to work with such an outstanding team. We have established the foundation for an exceptional company, built for sustainable growth as it serves its vital purpose. I am so proud of what we have accomplished together,” Collins said.

“I will continue to serve as CEO until the Board identifies a successor. The organization remains focused on execution, and we are on track to deliver on our financial commitments for the first half 2021 and will provide further updates on the full year outlook during the second quarter earnings call. We have created a special culture at Corteva, backed up by sustainability goals to advance agriculture resiliency, and I am confident that while we will see healthy change, our commitment to our shareholders, our customers, and to a safer, healthier planet will endure for years to come,” added Collins.