Syngenta Group appoints Hengde Qin as CEO
He has served on Syngenta Group’s executive team since 2020, holding senior roles across business, finance, human resources, and global operations.
SWITZERLAND – Syngenta Group has announced that its Board of Directors has unanimously appointed Hengde Qin as Chief Executive Officer, effective August 1, 2026, succeeding Jeff Rowebefore.
Fanrong Li, Chairman of the Board of Directors, said: “The Board of Directors believes Hengde, a highly respected leader who boasts a unique combination of operational, financial and commercial experience, is the best candidate for the role. We are confident that Hengde will take Syngenta Group to the next level of its sustainable development and value creation. We want to sincerely thank Jeff for his contribution and service as he led the company through focused execution during one of the most challenging periods in modern agriculture.“
Qin will be based at Syngenta Group’s headquarters in Basel, Switzerland, where he has been based since January 2023. He has served on Syngenta Group’s executive team since 2020, holding senior roles across business, finance, human resources, and global operations.
During his tenure, he has served as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer for Syngenta Group, and President of Syngenta Group China, where he led a period of significant growth and improved profitability, establishing the China business as one of the company’s strongest-performing operations.
Furthermore, Qin holds a bachelor’s degree in economics and management from the East China Engineering Institute of Technology, a master’s degree in industrial engineering from Huazhong University of Science and Technology, and an MBA from the China Europe International Business School.
His extensive background in finance, human resources, and international operations has prepared him for this leadership role.
“Agriculture stands at the centre of the world’s most important challenges, from feeding a growing population to improving sustainability and resilience across food systems,” said Qin.
On the other hand, Rowe joined Syngenta in September 2016 and led the successful turnaround of the Seeds business, which achieved strong growth and returned to profitability. He then led the Crop Protection business, the company’s largest business unit, before taking over as CEO.
“I have worked closely with Hengde for many years and have seen firsthand his commitment to our business, his understanding of our customers, and his deep appreciation for the people who make this company successful. This is a transition from strength to strength,” said Rowe.
Finally, this leadership change marks a strategic move to maintain long-term value and profitability for the global agricultural giant.
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