Bayer today announced that Kate Connors assumes the role of Managing Director of Bayer’s Crop Science division in the UK and Country Division Head UK, Ireland, Nordics and Baltics, effective 1 February 2026. She succeeds Nils Bauer, who takes over a global role within the Crop Science division. In her former role, Kate Connors served as Head of Marketing & Agronomy for the UK, Ireland & Nordics.
“I am honored to take on this role and to lead our Crop Science business across the UK, Ireland, Nordics, and Baltics during such a critical period for the agricultural industry, which is facing numerous challenges, including regulatory uncertainty and evolving trade dynamics,” said Kate Connors. “Together with our teams and partners, we will continue to deliver leading innovation in crop protection and seeds, supported by our local expertise. This commitment will help us to support the industry to farm profitably and sustainably, both today and into the future.”
Bayer’s Crop Science business in the UK, Ireland, Nordics and Baltics will continue to advance its strategy focused on customer‑centric innovation and experience supporting agriculture through collaboration and a strong focus on productivity, sustainability, and food security during a time of significant change for the sector. Aligned with Bayer’s Dynamic Shared Ownership model, the regional Crop Science division will further empower local teams, shorten decision paths and accelerate the delivery of innovations.
Kate Connors is Australian and joined the company in 2009. She has since held roles in Sales Operations, Regulatory Affairs and Marketing. In 2023, she relocated to Basel as Transformation Lead and Chief of Staff - Region EMEA, where she played a pivotal role in supporting the shift to the Dynamic Shared Ownership model, before taking on her previous role as Marketing & Agronomy Lead UK, Ireland & Nordics earlier this year. Kate holds a double degree in Agricultural Science and Business and an MBA from the University of Melbourne. She will continue to be based in the UK.
About Bayer
Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the life science fields of health care and nutrition. In line with its mission, “Health for all, Hunger for none,” the company’s products and services are designed to help people and the planet thrive by supporting efforts to master the major challenges presented by a growing and aging global population. Bayer is committed to driving sustainable development and generating a positive impact with its businesses. At the same time, the Group aims to increase its earning power and create value through innovation and growth. The Bayer brand stands for trust, reliability and quality throughout the world. In fiscal 2024, the Group employed around 93,000 people and had sales of 46.6 billion euros. R&D expenses amounted to 6.2 billion euros. For more information, go to www.bayer.com.
