March 12, 2010 – Dean Shoemaker (at left) is the new executive director of Flowers Canada (Ontario) . He takes over from Dr. Irwin Smith, who is retiring in mid-April after having led the association since February 1999.

FCO president Andrew Kuyvenhoven says a great deal of thanks is owed Dr. Smith for his role in advancing the profile of the greenhouse floriculture industry. “Irwin has accomplished many strategic partnerships and has brought in millions of dollars in project and research funding,” said Kuyvenhoven. Smith also effectively managed staff, and most importantly, “he has clearly understood our industry needs with hundreds, if not thousands, of greenhouse visits and meetings to his credit.”

For his part, Shoemaker has worked closely with the FCO and Flowers Canada Growers staff for over five years. He has a strong business and agricultural background.

Shoemaker became the marketing director in charge of the pickOntario project in September of last year. Prior to that, he served as the marketing coordinator for pickOntario. His other FCO responsibilities have included business development, proposal writing and project management.

Previously, he worked with Thiessen’s Greenhouses as president of GrowerFlowers.com. From 2002-06, he volunteered as treasurer on the FCO board.

“I am very excited to serve our community of floriculture growers and I look forward to building on Irwin’s many successes,” said Shoemaker.