Cargill Chair and CEO Brian Sikes joins Deere & Company's Board of Directors

Rhea-AI Summary

Deere & Company (NYSE: DE) announced that Brian Sikes, chair and chief executive officer of Cargill, was appointed to Deere's board of directors effective December 4, 2025. Sikes has been at Cargill since 1991, became president and CEO in 2023 and was named chair of Cargill's board in 2024. Deere said Sikes brings deep experience across the agricultural value chain, sustainability and supply chain initiatives. With his appointment, Deere's board increased to 11 members, of which 10 are independent, non-employee directors.

Positive

• Adds Cargill chair and CEO Brian Sikes to Deere board (Dec 4, 2025)
• Board size increases to 11 members, 10 independent directors

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• None.

MOLINE, Ill., Dec. 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Deere & Company (NYSE: DE) today announced the appointment of Brian Sikes, board chair and chief executive officer of Cargill, to the company's board of directors. Sikes leads one of the world's largest privately held companies and is widely recognized for his strategic vision and dedication to advancing global food and agriculture.

"We're delighted to welcome Brian to the Deere board," said John C. May, chairman and chief executive officer of Deere & Company. "Brian's decades of leadership at Cargill have given him a deep understanding of the agricultural value chain and the challenges faced by farmers and food producers worldwide. His commitment to innovation and sustainability will be instrumental as we continue to transform our business and deliver smarter, more sustainable solutions for our customers."

Since joining Cargill in 1991, Sikes has served in numerous leadership positions within the company's protein, food ingredients, and agricultural supply chain divisions. He assumed the roles of president and CEO in 2023, taking charge of Cargill's operations across more than 70 countries, and was named chair of Cargill's board of directors in 2024. Over the course of his career, he has been an advocate for farmers, food producers, and frontline workers, leading initiatives aimed at enhancing supply chain efficiency, promoting responsible management of natural resources, and utilizing technology and innovation to create long-term value for the industry.

He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Economics from Texas Tech University.

With Sikes' appointment, the size of Deere's board has increased to 11 members, 10 of whom are independent, non-employee directors.

About John Deere:

Deere & Company (www.JohnDeere.com) is a global leader in the delivery of agricultural, construction, and forestry equipment. We help our customers push the boundaries of what's possible in ways that are more productive and sustainable to help life leap forward. Our technology-enabled products including John Deere Autonomous 8R Tractor, See & Spray™, and E-Power Backhoe are just some of the ways we help meet the world's increasing need for food, shelter, and infrastructure. Deere & Company also provides financial services through John Deere Financial. For more information on Deere & Company, visit us at www.deere.com/en/news/.

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SOURCE John Deere Company

FAQ

Who is Brian Sikes and what role did Deere (DE) appoint him to on December 4, 2025?

Brian Sikes is chair and CEO of Cargill and was appointed to Deere's board of directors on December 4, 2025.

How does Brian Sikes' background relate to Deere's business and strategy (DE)?

Sikes has led Cargill since 2023 and has experience across protein, food ingredients, and agricultural supply chains, which Deere says supports its focus on innovation and sustainability.

What change occurred to Deere's board composition after the DE appointment on Dec 4, 2025?

Deere's board increased to 11 members, with 10 being independent, non-employee directors.

When did Brian Sikes become Cargill's CEO and when was he named chair before joining Deere's board?

Sikes became Cargill president and CEO in 2023 and was named chair of Cargill's board in 2024.

Does Brian Sikes' appointment to Deere's board (DE) signal operational changes or immediate financial impacts?

The announcement highlights governance and strategic expertise; it does not state any immediate operational changes or financial guidance.