Star Roses and Plants restructures woody ornamentals team

Star Roses and Plants has restructured its woody ornamentals team, which includes two promotions and a new hire.

Kristen Pullen has been promoted to director of woody products and will be responsible for the overall strategy and performance of the woody plants program. Pullen has been with Star Roses and Plants for over a decade.

Pullen’s previous role of woody portfolio manager will be filled by long-time team member, Mary Woolman. Woolman will oversee the full pipeline for woody genetics, from trialing to introduction. 

To further support the growth of its woody ornamental program, Star Roses and Plants has hired Simon Traskey for the newly created woody technical advisor position.

The Star Roses and Plants woody portfolio includes over 150 genetics, both internally and externally bred. Notable varieties include Flame Thrower Cercis, Sweet Starlight Hydrangea, ‘Little Missy’ Buxus, and the Bushel and Berry brand.

“I am thrilled with the realignment of our woody ornamentals team and the opportunity to recognize and promote two long-term employees and further develop the team’s impact by adding an additional role,” says Bradd Yoder, president of Star Roses and Plants. “We are often viewed as primarily a bare root rose enterprise, but our woody ornamentals program is one of the fastest growing aspects of our company, and we know that this investment in our team and resources will foster that growth and highlight our previous and future impact in the woody category.”