32 / SEEDWORLD.COM DECEMBER 2017 To the grower’s benefit, researchers are continuing to push the industry forward by identifying technologies at a faster and faster rate, says Tobin. The Importance of Sustainability As the seed industry continues its focus on advanced develop- ment, Tobin says they must remain attuned to sustainability. Yields have continued to grow, which allows the agricultural industry to produce more on the same number of acres. Demand for food and fiber are growing – as our population increases – but the land available for farming remains the same or is diminishing. “We must do more with less and do so in a way that is sus- tainable. Our growers demand it: so many of them want to leave the land better than it was left to them. The seed industry can help them do that, by improving productivity, lessening tillage and keeping more soil in place.” Beyond Negotiations: Addressing Equally Complex Issues During a Merger Ed Shonsey specializes in global commercialization of technol- ogy. He is the mergers and acquisitions expert at Finding Black Ink. He has led and participated in numerous acquisitions, dives- titures and funding procurements. He was a naval officer and received several commendations for leadership during combat operations Shonsey is presently working with sustainable food and energy projects in North and South America, Europe and Asia, targeting improved growth and profitability When it comes to an agribusiness merger, the executives managing the companies through that process need to keep two priorities in mind – food sustainability and customer benefits. “Those two priorities are tightly intertwined and co-depend- ent but should be balanced with an experienced analysis of key elements such as future cash flows, freedom to operate and focused strategic planning,” Shonsey says. “A merger or acquisition offers opportunity for innovation, new products and services, expanded market access, more choices and increased value. It is these values that must be communicated by the companies’ executives throughout the entire employee base.” Beyond the Bottom Line The executive resources at Finding Black Ink have the career experiences needed to aid agribusiness executives during a merger. The core philosophies that guide Finding Black Ink’s experts align with the daily challenges encountered by CEOs during a merger: objectivity, creativity, integrity, collaboration, and, perhaps most importantly, market understanding. For more information about Finding Black Ink, go to findingblackink.com SW