CLAAS of America Inc. announced that David Friedersdorf, a long-standing employee within the company, will direct a new business unit responsible for CLAAS hay tool and baler product lines in North America.

Friedersdorf began with CLAAS of America Inc. in 1991 and most recently held the position of Business Development Manager-North America, in charge of dealer development.

"David Friedersdorf brings a broad agricultural background and understanding of our dealers and ultimately, end users of CLAAS machinery," commented Russ Green, president of CLAAS of America Inc.

Green also stated that, "David is committed to further developing our business in the North American hay tool and baler markets. His new position will give him the necessary resources to bring CLAAS products to a leading position in these key markets, just as we have been able to do with the JAGUAR forage harvester."

Friedersdorf earned his BS degree in Ag Economics and Business Management from Purdue University.