Michael Geary Resigns From AmericanHort

Chris Beytes

After a good 5 1/2-year run at the helm of OFA and then AmericanHort, CEO Michael Geary has tendered his resignation that was effective at the end of September. Why? To be closer to home and family, he told GrowerTalks. But he wasn’t actively seeking a new position or planning to leave AmericanHort.

“I moved to Columbus from Washington D.C., and all my family and loved ones are there,” Michael said. “Unexpectedly, I was approached by an organization that was looking for a new CEO. It brought together all those things that are important to me. It happened very quickly.”

Michael, who has a background in architecture and construction association management, will be CEO of Society for Marketing Professional Services, which represents professionals working in architecture, engineering and construction.

“It’s familiar territory,” he said, “and also gave me an opportunity to move back to D.C. full time.”

Michael gave a generous two-months notice so the association would have time to find his replacement. David Savoia, the CFO and senior vice president for operations, will serve as interim President & CEO while the board conducts a search for a new staff executive. Craig Regelbrugge, the senior vice president for advocacy and research, will support David with the association’s external affairs.

Michael, who started with OFA in March of 2010 and helped guide the merger with ANLA, said, “I’m sad to leave AmericanHort. It’s been a really great career and I’ve built some great friendships that won’t be forgotten.”

We asked Michael what was the most interesting thing he learned while serving the horticulture industry. He thought for a bit and answered, “This is going to sound pretty mundane to those in the industry, but this is more than just a job. People [in the industry] are very passionate about what they do, whether they’re growing or selling or servicing plants. They’re passionate about their products and the impact they have on the public. … They aren’t in this business just to make money, they’re in this business because they love what they do.” GT