Merlo America announced the addition of Jerry Donahue to its United States sales team, overseeing the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic territory, spanning Maryland to Maine, including Long Island, N.Y., and Pennsylvania.
Donahue brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously managed high-value equipment sales projects, both across North America and internationally. Donahue's experience makes him a strategic addition to the team as the company continues to grow its presence in construction, agriculture and forestry markets.
Donahue began his career in manufacturing as a tool and mold maker before transitioning to capital equipment sales, handling numerous high-profit projects. His career has taken him around the globe, working across North America, Australia, Europe and the Middle East, developing dealer networks and strengthening customer relationships along the way.
"I was drawn to Merlo America because of the people, the equipment and the forward-thinking approach," Donahue said. "It's clear that here, marketing and sales go hand-in-hand, and it's exciting to help dealers and customers understand the versatility and technology of our machines firsthand. I'm looking forward to building relationships and helping the Merlo America brand grow in my territory."
Hands-On Dealer Engagement, Forestry Focus
Since joining the company, Donahue has been actively engaging with dealers and participating in key industry events. Most recently, he attended ConExpo in Las Vegas, where he represented Merlo America while strengthening relationships with both dealers and customers.
Reflecting on the tradeshow, Donahue said: "ConExpo was an incredible experience, and I was especially proud to stand with the team in our outstanding Merlo City booth. Being on the floor, interacting with dealers and end-users and demonstrating the machines firsthand really reinforces the value we bring to the market."
"Seeing dealers and customers experience the machines in action is game-changing," he added. "From live demos to trade shows, there's no substitute for showing people what these machines can do."
A strong example of this hands-on approach is Merlo America's partnership with Woods CRW, a dealer with a long-standing reputation in construction, forestry and material handling across the Northeast. Founded in 1961, Woods CRW operates locations in Vermont, Pennsylvania, New York and Massachusetts, offering sales, rentals, parts and service for both new and used equipment.
"Woods CRW has been incredible to work with. Supporting a dealer with such deep expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction is key to growing Merlo's presence in the Northeast," Donahue said.
Speaking on early collaboration with Donahue, Carl Favata, general manager of Woods CRW, said: "Jerry's been present and engaged since day one. We're early in, but he's shown he understands this industry and what dealers need. That's a good foundation."
As part of his commitment to supporting dealers and expanding customer relationships in the forestry sector, Donahue attended ArborEXPO on March 26-27, 2026, and attended the Logger's Expo on May 1-2. Alongside Merlo America's Product Manager, Rick Fernandez, at ArborEXPO, Donahue met potential customers in Massachusetts where the Roto 50.35 with the Smart Bobby grapple saw and Treemme MM250X with FAE mulching head attachment was on display, showcasing Merlo's forestry capabilities for tree removal, logging and timber operations.
Driving Growth Across Northeast, Mid-Atlantic
Donahue's role includes developing new dealer partnerships, supporting existing dealers and demonstrating Merlo's broad product lineup across construction, agriculture and forestry sectors.
"Fast support and being present are key," Donahue said. "Whether it's at a show, on a customer site or visiting a dealer, it's about building trust and giving people confidence. Having been in their position myself, I understand what matters most to dealers and customers, and I'm committed to delivering the level of service and support they expect."
"Jerry's experience and approach really stand out," said Cole Renken, general manager of Merlo America. "He understands the importance of being present with dealers and customers, listening to their needs and supporting them in a practical, hands-on way. We're excited to have him on the team as we continue building momentum and strengthening relationships across the Northeast and beyond."
For more information, visit MerloAmerica.com.
