Hans Becherer, who led Deere & Co. to record profits throughout the 1990s, has died. Becherer led the lawn-and-garden division to top $1 billion in sales for the first time, and played a role in the expansion of the company’s construction equipment portfolio.
“Hans Becherer led Deere & Co. during a time of significant growth and financial success,” said current Deere chairman and CEO Samuel Allen. “He is credited with expanding Deere’s international operations, broadening the product portfolio, and strengthening Deere’s global leadership in agriculture. He also was a driving force behind extensive revitalization efforts that took place in downtown Moline that began in the 1990s.”
Under Becherer’s leadership, Deere expanded its presence in Europe, Asia, and South America.
Becherer joined Deere & Co. in 1962 after receiving an MBA from Harvard University. He became president and chief operating officer in 1987, CEO in 1989 and chairman in 1990.
In 1999, Deere posted worldwide net sales and revenues of $11.7 billion and net income of $239 million. He retired in May 2000.
Becherer is survived by his wife, Michele; a daughter Vanessa, and three grandchildren.
