Deere & Company has announced changes to its senior leadership team that will take place after the retirement of James A. Israel, president of John Deere Financial — the company's global financial services division headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa.

These changes are effective October 23:

• James A. Israel, president, John Deere Financial, has elected to retire after 35 years of service.
• Michael J. Mack, Jr. is appointed group president, John Deere Financial Services, Global Human Resources and Public Affairs.
• Max A. Guinn is appointed president, Worldwide Construction & Forestry, Global Labor Relations and Security.

Israel joined Deere in 1979, has held a number of management positions, and was appointed president of the financial services business in 2006. With his guidance, the size of the company's credit portfolio nearly doubled to approximately $40 billion and the number of countries in which financing services are offered increased from 17 to 45.

"Over the course of his career, Jim Israel has shown a keen business intellect, dedication and commitment to employees, and a passion for excellent customer service and business leadership," said Samuel R. Allen, chairman and chief executive officer.

Mack is currently president of Deere's Worldwide Construction & Forestry Division, a position he has held since 2009. He previously served as Deere & Company's treasurer and chief financial officer.

Guinn is currently senior vice president of human relations, communications, public affairs and labor relations. He previously held a variety of leadership roles in both of Deere's major equipment divisions.