For the previous 14 years he hs been with Kubota Tractor Australia, most recently as general manager sales and marketing.

In his new role, Mr Barry will be responsible for growing national market share across Landpower’s portfolio of Claas tractors, harvesters and forage equipment, Amazone tillage and spray equipment and Grimme potato systems.

Mr Barry believes Landpower is well placed for significant growth during the next five years.

"We want to achieve double digit market share in all categories in which we compete," he said.

"Claas and Grimme are leaders in the grain, fodder and potato harvesting sectors.

"The challenge now is to establish Claas as a major force in the Australian tractor market.

"There are 41 tractor brands in Australia – my goal is to make sure Claas is in the top four of each category.

"We have an incredible range to select from, so it comes down to correctly matching the available models to the needs of Australian primary producers and contractors."

Raised on his family's farm at Deniliquin, NSW, Mr Barry has extensive knowledge of Australian farming systems and the farm machinery industry.

He will work closely with Landpower's former national sales chief, Guy Fordham, who has moved to the newly-created role of distribution development manager.

In this new role, Mr Fordham will be responsible for the ongoing growth of the company's distribution network, which today consists of more than 50 franchises, independent dealers and specialist Claas Harvest Centres.

Landpower group chief executive, Richard Wilson, says the complementary roles will bring new drive to the company’s successful Australian operations.