Fall Creek® Appoints Marc de Beer, Ph.D., as Chief Executive Officer

EUGENE, Ore., U.S. – Fall Creek Farm & Nursery, Inc.®, a leading global blueberry genetics and nursery company, today announced the appointment of Marc de Beer, Ph.D., as Chief Executive Officer, effective October 13, 2025.

De Beer brings two decades of leadership experience in animal nutrition and genetics to Fall Creek. Most recently, he served as president of Aviagen North America, a global leader in poultry genetics, with earlier leadership roles at Elanco Animal Health and DSM Nutritional Products.

Originally from South Africa, de Beer earned bachelor's and master's degrees in animal science from the University of Stellenbosch, and a Ph.D. in poultry science from the University of Arkansas.

He is recognized for combining scientific expertise with exceptional people leadership and the ability to align teams around shared goals.

"Marc brings an ideal combination of scientific foundation, people-first leadership, and operational excellence," said Kevin Murphy, executive chair of the Board. "He is deeply aligned with our values, which make Fall Creek who we are. He is the leader we need to build on the strength of our global team and guide Fall Creek® toward our vision and next era of growth.”

De Beer succeeds Cort Brazelton, who has served in senior leadership since 2019, first as Co-CEO and then as sole CEO beginning in January 2025. Over nearly 18 years with Fall Creek®, Brazelton played a key role in expanding the company from its roots as a local Oregon nursery to a global genetics and nursery business. He will continue serving as a board member, engaged shareholder, and strategic advisor.

“The blueberry industry has seen incredible growth and change, with much more ahead. Fall Creek® remains committed to innovation and to serving growers, customers, and consumers, along with supporting the success of the global blueberry community,” said Brazelton. “Looking ahead with a clear vision for the future of the industry and of Fall Creek®, I am thrilled to welcome Marc into the Fall Creek® family and to help bring that vision to life. He brings the humility, experience, and leadership capabilities that align with our culture and will propel the company forward."

"I am excited to join Fall Creek® and contribute to a company defined by innovation and strong values," said de Beer. "I look forward to listening, learning, and collaborating with employees and customers worldwide as we continue building ‘a world with better blueberries’."

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About Fall Creek Farm & Nursery, Inc.®

Fall Creek® is a world-leading blueberry genetics company, delivering over 40 million plants of 100+ unique varieties annually to leading growers across 59 countries. Founded in Oregon in 1978, this family-owned company operates 10 wholly owned facilities spanning North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Fall Creek® serves the global industry through distinct licensing platforms for advanced blueberry varieties. With over 1,000 team members worldwide, the company provides comprehensive horticultural support and market intelligence to maximize grower success. Committed to building A World with Better Blueberries™, Fall Creek® continues to lead industry innovation. Visit www.fallcreeknursery.com.
 
Media Contact:
Pável González
Corporate Communications Manager
pavelg@fallcreeknursery.com