Mark Olson has stepped down from his role as interim executive director of Western Crop Innovations (WCI) ahead of the one-year anniversary of his contract. His last day was March 7. The decision was made mutually between Olson and WCI’s interim board as the organization prepares to recruit a full-time, permanent executive director.
Olson was appointed in 2023 to lead WCI’s transition from the Field Crop Development Centre (FCDC) at Olds College to its new independent structure in Lacombe, Alta. During his tenure, he oversaw key milestones, including securing multi-year funding from Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation and achieving notable performance results at this year’s Prairie Grain Development Committee meetings.
“My role with WCI was always to lead and manage all aspects of our transition from the former FCDC residence at Olds College,” Olson said. “Working with a fantastic team of passionate individuals along with our Minister-appointed board, we accomplished our mission and brought renewed focus and credibility to the program.”
With WCI’s annual general meeting set for June, the Interim Board and Olson agreed that new leadership would help strengthen the organization’s business plan as it moves into its next phase. Olson emphasized that securing additional funding and boosting member engagement will be critical for WCI’s long-term success.
“The interim board hired Mark as interim executive director to lead the development of a renewed Crop Research Program here in Lacombe that will provide positive results for Western Canadian farmers,” said Jason Lenz, interim board chair. “Mark’s tireless effort and commitment got us to a point of successful transition and a renewed focus for a research centre with a 52-year history. We appreciate his work and leadership over the past 11 months.”
The board is expected to announce Olson’s interim replacement next week. Meanwhile, the search for a permanent executive director continues as WCI looks to build on its momentum and expand its research initiatives.
“I wish the organization the best of success going forward and will always look back on this past year with pride and admiration for the men and women of Western Crop Innovations,” Olson said.
Watch his final interview with the Alberta Seed Guide filmed last summer at AgSmart in Olds at the top of the page.
