Merlo America has appointed Jerry Corder as product manager, adding to its U.S.-based product leadership team. The company announced the appointment in November 2025, noting that Corder brings more than 20 years of experience across the construction and agricultural equipment sectors.
Corder is based in Fort Worth, Texas, and has worked in data analytics, marketing, product management and international dealer support. He is a graduate of the University of Washington with a degree in public relations and advertising, and began his career in advertising before moving into the heavy equipment industry.
His first equipment industry role was with PACCAR, where he spent more than a decade working in data analytics and international sales. During that time, he supported dealers and customers across multiple global markets, including mining, oil and transportation. After PACCAR, Corder joined Genie, where his responsibilities included trade show management, parts marketing and product line support. He later worked at Kubota, where he focused on product management and product marketing across multiple equipment categories.
Throughout his career, Corder has emphasized data analysis and direct engagement with dealers and customers.
“I’m a bit of a data nerd,” Corder smiles, “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.”
Corder said Merlo America’s approach to product management influenced his decision to join the company.
“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.”
In his new role, Corder will work alongside Product Manager Rick Fernandez to support Merlo America’s dealer and customer network. He stated that collaboration across the product team will be a priority.
“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.”
Corder also highlighted Merlo’s equipment range and its use across multiple applications.
“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.”
Merlo America said Corder’s experience will support the company’s continued expansion in North America, particularly across its telehandler lineup.
"Jerry's vision and experience will be invaluable for Merlo as we aim to expand our presence in the U.S. 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,” said Jennifer Brigman, vice president of strategy and operations at Merlo America.
Corder said his initial focus will be on learning the product lineup, supporting dealers and contributing to training and education efforts.
“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."
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