Stone, who joined the company in 2002, has managed the company's global utility tractor product line and headed corporate strategy. Since 2016, he has been Senior Vice President, Intelligent Solutions Group. In that role, he has led the company's efforts to develop precision technologies that bring value and productivity to customers. Stone was instrumental in the opening of John Deere Labs, a San Francisco-based research unit focused on breakthrough technologies such as machine learning and robotics. Also under his leadership, Deere in 2017 acquired Blue River Technology, a company that develops computer vision and machine learning capabilities for agriculture.
"John's record of success and proven leadership skills make him highly qualified for this critical role," said John C. May, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "His firm grasp of the vital importance of technology will be of great benefit as he assumes leadership of our construction equipment operations."
Stone succeeds James M. Field, who will assume a new role as Senior Advisor, Office of the Chairman. In this position, Field will provide counsel to company leadership on various financial and operating matters. Since joining Deere in 1994, he has held a number of leadership assignments. He was President of the former commercial and consumer equipment and agriculture and turf divisions and also served as a Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. In 2018, Field was named President, Worldwide Construction & Forestry and Power Systems.
