In a strategic move that underscores its commitment to innovation and leadership, Orbia Advance Corporation’s S.A.B. de C.V. (BMV: ORBIA*) Precision Agriculture business, Netafim, has announced the appointment of Melissa Lilze as Senior Vice President, North America, effective January 1, 2026. Lilze’s promotion is not just a change in leadership but a testament to her proven track record and the company’s dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive executive team.
Lilze’s journey with Orbia Netafim began in 2016 as a Sales Representative in California. Her rapid ascent through the ranks, culminating in her most recent role as Senior Director of Sales for North America, highlights her exceptional ability to drive business growth and build robust customer relationships. Her appointment to the Executive Leadership Team is a well-deserved recognition of her contributions and a clear indication of the company’s confidence in her vision and capabilities.
The agriculture and ag-tech sectors have long been male-dominated, but Lilze’s appointment as the first woman to lead the North America division is a significant step towards breaking down these barriers. This move aligns with the broader industry trend of promoting gender diversity in leadership roles, which has been shown to enhance decision-making, foster innovation, and improve financial performance.
Gaby Miodownik, Executive Vice President and President of Orbia’s Precision Agriculture business, expressed enthusiasm about Lilze’s appointment, stating, “Melissa embodies the values and culture we have cultivated over many years of industry leadership. This, combined with her deep industry knowledge, commercial excellence, and people-first approach, makes her the ideal fit to lead our North America business.”
Lilze’s vision for the North America division is clear: to deliver smarter irrigation solutions that empower growers, strengthen partnerships, and drive sustainable impact. Her approach emphasizes the importance of listening to customers, teams, and the land, underscoring the belief that real innovation begins with understanding the unique needs and challenges of the agriculture community.
The implications of Lilze’s appointment are far-reaching. Her leadership is expected to accelerate progress and create value across the supply chain, ensuring that agriculture and specialty markets thrive for generations to come. Additionally, her focus on sustainable impact aligns with the growing global emphasis on environmental stewardship and resource efficiency in agriculture.
Orbia Netafim’s appreciation for outgoing Senior Vice President Mike Hemman’s contributions is also noteworthy. Hemman’s role in driving commercial growth and cultivating a culture of leadership development has laid a strong foundation for Lilze to build upon.
In conclusion, Melissa Lilze’s appointment as Senior Vice President, North America, is a pivotal moment for Orbia Netafim. It reflects the company’s commitment to innovation, diversity, and sustainable growth. As Lilze steps into her new role, the agriculture industry watches with anticipation, eager to see the positive changes and advancements she will undoubtedly bring to the forefront.