Waynesboro, Virginia, USA
February 5, 2019
We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Kincannon & Reed Chairman Gregory J. Duerksen. Greg died unexpectedly in Richmond, VA on Thursday, Jan. 31. Greg joined Kincannon & Reed in 2001 and became chairman and CEO in 2007.
“Greg’s contribution to the firm cannot be overstated,” said Kincannon & Reed president and CEO Issy Perez. “He always reminded us to stay connected with clients and candidates to build our business and to deliver high-quality services.” After leading the acquisition of the firm from its founder in 2007, Greg guided Kincannon & Reed to become the leading search firm in the food and agribusiness sectors, tripling the firm’s staff and partner group while maintaining its entrepreneurial, collaborative culture.
“It is upon this strong foundation that we will honor his legacy by executing his vision of continued growth working with organizations that feed the world,” Perez added. “We extend our deepest condolences to Greg’s wife, Ellen, and the rest of his family during this painful time.”
Those fortunate to have known Greg grieve the loss of a dear friend, a passionate industry advocate, a sincere mentor, a hard-working colleague, and a servant leader with unwavering integrity.
Part of Greg’s long-term vision for the firm was evolving the leadership structure to expand the partner group and bring in a food executive as president and CEO for day-to-day management, allowing Greg to move into the Chairman role and focus on what he loved: building relationships with clients and industry leaders. These transitions have positioned the firm well, enabling the organization to continue with the strategies and vision that Greg fostered.
Greg believed that those working in food and agriculture serve a noble purpose, and he had a deep understanding of the prominent role effective executives play in the success of every organization in the food value chain. His ever-present passion for recruiting leaders for organizations that feed the world and keep it healthy will live on in the firm.
Greg’s experience at Augustana University changed his life and the family has established a memorial fund in Greg’s name to make that possible for others in his home state of South Dakota.
About Kincannon & Reed
Kincannon & Reed is the only retained executive search firm focused exclusively on serving clients across the food value chain. Founded in 1981, the firm has a global reputation for employing deep sector expertise and executive understanding on its clients’ behalf. Its principals serve clients throughout the world from locations in the Americas, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. Kincannon & Reed’s motto is “We recruit leaders for organizations that feed the world and keep it healthy.” www.krsearch.com
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