LANSING, Mich., Jan. 29, 2019 — Neogen Corporation (NASDAQ: NEOG) announced today that its transition of the responsibilities from James Herbert to John Adent as the company’s chief executive officer is now complete. Herbert will continue to serve as chairman of Neogen’s Board of Directors, and as the company’s director of strategic growth under the direction of Adent.
Neogen named Adent to succeed Herbert as its CEO in July 2017. Herbert had served as Neogen’s CEO since the company’s founding in 1982.
“Clearly, Neogen would not exist without Jim’s tremendous talent, vision and drive. He saw a need for what Neogen could become, and worked tirelessly to achieve his dream,” said Adent. “I am honored and grateful to have been granted this opportunity. I look forward to Jim’s continued guidance as we work together to grow upon all that Neogen has been able to accomplish.”
“Today marks the conclusion of a lengthy transition process that we began when John joined us,” said Herbert. “We initiated the process so that when this day arrived I could report to all of Neogen’s stakeholders that the company has transitioned into very capable hands. I will continue to work on special assignments to help Neogen’s growth.”
Adent joined Neogen after 13 years as CEO for Animal Health International (AHI). Under his leadership, AHI more than quadrupled revenues over the following decade through a series of acquisitions and joint ventures. AHI was acquired by the Patterson Companies in 2015 and Adent continued to serve as CEO of the $3.3 billion animal health division until he joined Neogen.
Neogen Corporation develops and markets products dedicated to food and animal safety. The company’s Food Safety Division markets culture media and diagnostic test kits to detect foodborne bacteria, natural toxins, food allergens, drug residues, plant diseases and sanitation concerns. Neogen’s Animal Safety Division is a leader in worldwide biosecurity products, animal genomics testing, and the manufacturing and distribution of a variety of animal healthcare products, including diagnostics, pharmaceuticals and veterinary instruments.