AmericanHort names Lionel van der Walt president and CEO

AmericanHort has named Lionel van der Walt as president and CEO, effective June 2.

Van der Walt brings more than 20 years of executive leadership experience across high-tech startups and international nonprofit associations. He most recently served as chief commercial officer at Nallian, a data-sharing technology company focused on the global air cargo industry. His background also includes leadership roles as CEO and executive vice president of the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants and president of Cargo Network Services, a subsidiary of the International Air Transport Association.

Kent Fullmer, chair of the AmericanHort board of directors, said van der Walt’s global experience and collaborative leadership style were key factors in the selection following a national search.

“It is a true honor to be selected to lead AmericanHort at such a pivotal time for the green industry,” van der Walt said, noting plans to work with members to build on the organization’s existing programs and advocacy efforts.

“I’m looking forward to working side-by-side to build on the great legacy of growth and advocacy that AmericanHort is known for,” van der Walt said.

RELATED: Meet AmericanHort’s new board leadership for 2026-2027.

Van der Walt has served on several industry and community boards and holds an MBA from Milpark Business School in South Africa. He has also completed association management training through the American Society of Association Executives.

He will succeed Ken Fisher, who plans to depart in May after 10 years with the organization.

Photo courtesy of AmericanHort.