DeCamp retires as CEO of CoverCress, Hedges appointed as successor

DeCamp (Photo: LinkedIn)

CoverCress Inc., a leading innovator in sustainable agriculture, the retirement of Mike DeCamp as CEO and president.

Hedges (Photo: LinkedIn)

The CoverCress board of directors completed a comprehensive search for a successor to DeCamp and has appointed Jim Hedges to lead the company as its new CEO and president.

During DeCamp’s tenure, CoverCress made substantial strides in developing CoverCress®, a novel lower carbon-intensity oilseed technology derived from pennycress, culminating in a successful commercial launch with growers in 2023.

“We are grateful for Mike’s leadership and his commitment and contributions to the company,” said Jennifer Ozimkiewicz, chair of CoverCress’ board of directors and an executive at Bayer.

“As we embark on this next phase, we are excited about the opportunities ahead and look forward to welcoming Jim as the company’s new leader who will build on the great work of Mike and the CCI team,” she said.

Over the past five years, DeCamp has been a pivotal figure in shaping CoverCress’ direction and growth.

Under his leadership, the company successfully completed a transformational transaction in 2022, combining the expertise and resources of industry leaders in crop sciences, soybean crushing, logistics and renewable fuels with Bayer, Bunge and Chevron holding all the equity interests in the company.

“I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved at CoverCress,” DeCamp said.

“As I step down, I am confident that the foundation we have built with our talented team, strong farming partnerships, and the unwavering support of our strategic owners will drive the company’s growth and innovation forward,” he added. “It has been a privilege to lead such a dedicated team committed to making a positive impact on agriculture.”

Hedges, a row-crop farmer from Central Illinois with over 30 years of experience leading agricultural-innovation companies, is poised to take the helm at CoverCress later this month.

“Mike’s work has positioned CoverCress as a leader in the emerging intermediate-oilseeds sector,” Hedges said. “I’m excited to lead CoverCress as we embark on this next phase of growth. We are poised to expand our market presence and further develop sustainable agricultural solutions that meet the needs of farmers and enable the production of lower carbon-emitting fuels.”

Both DeCamp’s retirement and Hedges’ appointment take effect March 17.

DeCamp will remain as a consultant through August to ensure a seamless transition that aligns with the company’s strategic goals.