Merlo America announced the appointment of Jerry Corder as it's latest product manager, marking another key addition to the company's growing product management team.
Corder brings more than 20 years of diverse industry experience spanning data analytics, marketing, product management and international dealer support in both the construction and agricultural sectors.
Based in Fort Worth, Texas, Corder's career journey has been shaped by his curiosity, adaptability and passion for solving complex challenges for customers. He began his professional life in the fast-paced world of advertising before transitioning into the heavy equipment industry, a move that ultimately defined his career trajectory.
Road to Product Leadership
His first industry role was with Paccar, where he spent more than a decade building a deep understanding of customer needs and dealer relationships. Starting as a data analyst for the parts team, he later joined the international sales division, supporting dealers and customers across the globe in sectors such as mining, oil and transportation.
After his time with Paccar, Corder joined Genie, where he managed trade shows, marketing for their parts brand, and a variety of product lines. One of his career highlights came during Genie's 50th anniversary celebration, when he and his team organized a week-long customer event that earned them company-wide recognition. He later joined Kubota, where he refined his product management and product marketing skills while gaining valuable experience across multiple equipment categories.
Through each step of his journey, one constant has remained: Corder's data-driven approach and genuine love for connecting with customers and dealers.
"I'm a bit of a data nerd," Corder said. "I love taking big sets of information, analyzing it and using it to improve products and decision-making. But just as much, I love getting out into the field, meeting people and hearing firsthand how equipment performs and what we can do better."
Passion for "Real" Product Management
That blend of technical understanding and personal connection made Merlo America an ideal fit. Upon finding out about the opportunity, Corder was immediately intrigued.
"My very first question was: is this real product management? Do I get to build something?" he said. "When I learned that Merlo America's approach is hands-on and collaborative, focused on innovation and quality, it was an easy decision. Everything about the company's vision and culture matched what I value."
Stepping into his new role, Corder joins fellow product manager Rick Fernandez to help expand Merlo America's support for its growing dealer and customer base. While the team continues to define their areas of focus, Corder is clear that collaboration will remain at the center of their work. "I don't believe in splitting products. When teams get siloed, it can limit understanding and create disconnects. I want us to work holistically, sharing knowledge, supporting each other and ensuring every dealer and customer gets the full Merlo experience."
Speaking on what differentiates Merlo's product line up, Corder said: "I've always admired how Merlo's products stand out. They're premium machines built for performance and adaptability and are truly the Swiss Army knife of the industry. Whether in construction or agriculture, they give customers the flexibility to do more with less, and that's something I'm proud to represent."
Corder's arrival comes at an exciting time for Merlo America as the company continues to expand its footprint in North America. His mix of construction and agricultural experience positions him well to support the company's versatile telehandler lineup.
"Jerry's vision and experience will be invaluable for Merlo as we aim to expand our presence in the U.S.," said Jennifer Brigman, vice president of strategy and operations of Merlo America. "The true strength of our product management team will become apparent through the resources we provide to dealers and customers as we develop our training and educational programs. Jerry will play a crucial role in these initiatives, and I am very pleased to have him on the team."
As Merlo America continues to grow its presence in the United States, Corder's focus will be on strengthening dealer relationships, expanding training programs and helping customers better understand the versatility and value of Merlo equipment.
Looking ahead, Corder is eager to make an impact. "My goal for the first year is simple: learn everything I can, help our dealers succeed, and keep building momentum," he said. "Merlo has all the right ingredients, the products, the people and the passion. I'm excited to be part of shaping what comes next."
For more information, visit MerloAmerica.com.
