As the corporate landscape continues to evolve, leadership transitions become pivotal moments for businesses. In a recent interview, the new CEO of Canterra Seeds — Brent Derkatch — shared insights into the priorities, challenges, and exciting prospects that lie ahead for the company.
Derkatch emphasized a shortlist of priorities, placing a strong focus on maintaining continuity within the business. Acknowledging the success and growth Canterra has experienced, he underscored the importance of supporting the staff during this transitional period.
Additionally, preserving relationships with partners, suppliers, shareholders, and the board has been crucial, warranting a three-month dedicated period for a seamless transition as he took over for former CEO David Hansen. Derkatch highlighted the commitment to the recently approved long-term strategic plan, affirming the ongoing significance of the company’s direction.
Challenges of the CEO Role
Taking over as CEO is no small feat, and Derkatch shed light on the challenges ahead. The role demands extensive travel, networking, and a broader perspective on long-term vision and strategy.
“The shift from detailed operational focus to a higher-level view requires adaptation,” he says, noting the commitment to overseeing the execution of operations by the staff and maintaining the recently approved strategic plan further adds to the complexity of the role.
In discussing Canterra’s involvement in the Variety Use Agreement (VUA) initiative, he highlighted the value creation tool’s role in attracting and sustaining investment in variety development.
“The VUA is a valuable tool for public and private breeding programs, contributing to the overall growth of the seed industry. We’re optimistic it’s gaining acceptance and has potential benefits for farmers through the introduction of new and improved varieties,” he said.
Concerns have been raised by some about the VUA being perceived as a strategy for private sector profit, he noted. Derkatch counters this by emphasizing the long-term investment nature of plant breeding.
“In plant breeding, there’s a substantial financial commitment required over a decade before seeing any return,” he says, and adds royalty collection done through a tool like the VUA can have big benefits for the industry.
As we approach 2024, key areas of focus for Derkatch include Canterra’s burgeoning canola seed business and the anticipation of new and improved varieties resulting from a partnership established with Limagrain to form Limagrain Cereals Research Canada.
