PanAmerican Seed celebrates career of retiring Sjaak Ros

At PanAmerican Seed, everything revolves around growth, not only of flowers but also of people. Today, the company honors the career of Sjaak Ros, Area Manager, who will soon retire after 42 years of loyal service. His journey reflects the opportunities and personal connections that define the flower seed industry.

A career rooted in growth
Sjaak joined PanAmerican Seed in 1983 as an Account Controller after completing his HEAO degree in Economics and Business Administration. He was initially drawn to numbers, but his career took an unexpected turn when he moved into sales, a shift that felt right to him from the start. From sending quotes by telex to traveling across continents, he embraced every challenge and opportunity.

© PanAmerican SeedSjaak Ros

Milestones and achievements
In 1983, fresh from his studies, Sjaak began at PanAmerican Seed as an Account Controller. Numbers were his world, and spreadsheets were his language, but his path soon changed. By the mid-1980s, what began as an inside role sending quotes by telex grew into something larger. He stepped into sales, meeting customers face-to-face and discovering the human side of the business. "It felt right from day one," he recalls.

Through the 1990s, he built bridges across borders with his natural talent for relationships. He became a trusted partner for clients worldwide. From South Africa to Israel, he turned business trips into opportunities for connection, helping make PanAmerican Seed a name associated with trust.

In the 2000s, as markets shifted and technology changed the industry, Sjaak adapted with resilience. His ability to find opportunities where others saw challenges became a defining trait. By 2025, after nearly 43 years, he retired as Area Manager, leaving a legacy of integrity, innovation, and personal touch. His journey shows that growth is not only about flowers but about people.

Throughout his career, Sjaak became known for his integrity, adaptability, and passion for people. "The best part is that it's a human industry," he often said. His work spanned the globe, making each day dynamic and rewarding.

A fond farewell
Reflecting on his journey, Sjaak shares: "I've had the privilege to work in an industry that values trust, relationships, and innovation. PanAmerican Seed gave me opportunities to grow, and I'm proud to have been part of this family for over four decades."

As he enters this new chapter, the company thanks him for his unwavering dedication and wishes him the very best in his well-deserved retirement.