What are your new responsibilities?
Our company has an extensive line of forage preservatives and mold inhibitors. In my new role as product manager, my responsibilities are to act as the “quarterback” for these products. I plan production, encourage and support sales, and oversee the marketing of these products.
What territory will you cover?
I work for the North American division of Kemin Animal Nutrition and Health. Thus, my territory is all NAFTA countries: Mexico, U.S. and Canada.
Please describe your agricultural background.
I grew up on a hog and row crop farm in north Central Iowa. Both of my grandfathers were dairy producers, thus I have fond memories of hours spent in the hay mow stacking hay!
What education are you bringing with you to this position?
I graduated from Iowa State University with a teaching degree that included a strong emphasis in animal science.
What previous positions have you held?
Over my 20 years in the animal industry, I’ve held a variety of sales, marketing and management positions. I started with American Cyanamid (now Pfizer), then moved to Roche (now DSM).
What excites you most about working in your new role?
Product managers are the “go-to person” to get things done. In this new role, no day is ever like the last. What excites me is the constant challenge and the constant change; this job is never dull!
How will you be of most help to producers in your region or area of expertise?
I’ve never lost touch with my roots. I know what producers and growers want and target my marketing activities around projects that add value. I try to keep my message focused on ROI and the value of the program for the producer. With so many products to choose, it is often very confusing for today’s livestock producers.
Why did you choose this company?
It is a fast growing, innovative and rapidly changing company. Kemin is continually positioning itself to remain a pioneer for many more years. The corporate goal of touching half of the world’s population every day is aggressive and shows that the company is not standing still.
What goals would you like to accomplish while in this position?
The products I market are known inside as our legacy products and my goal is to reenergize this line. These products are vital to livestock producers and with the right marketing message and support, they can remain a vital part of the Kemin portfolio for many more years. FG
