b'TOP 15 MANAGEMENT MAVERICKS OF NORTH AMERICAUNITED STATESDOUG HUBNER President, Hubner Industries LULU RODRIGUEZIowa State University Seed Science Center (SSC) Global Attributes: Strategic, Inspirational,Programs LeadInnovative, Coach, Humble Attributes: Inclusive, Strategic, Empathetic, Innovative, SupportiveNominators said: Doug demonstrates a strong commitment to the long-termNominators said: As interim director of the sustainability of the seed industry. HeIowa State University Seed Science Center, pioneers new paths and innovations inLulu demonstrated exemplary leadership agricultural technology and tools to advance the industry. Hein transition. Her natural leadership style, mentors youth interested in agriculture, 4-H and FFA, andcharacterized by grace, confidence, clarity, empathy and deci-is dedicated to seed industry leadership. Doug sets Hubnersiveness, made an uncertain time manageable. Lulus inclusive Industries strategic direction and culture. He cares about hisleadership fosters a collaborative environment. She streamlined team, always encouraging and supporting individual and teamoperations, enhanced research initiatives and strengthened growth and development. Doug encourages learning andindustry partnerships. Her empathetic and supportive approach actively participates in his team members growth. He fosters anboosts team morale, encouraging professional development and inclusive and collaborative work environment that is also enjoy- a culture of excellence. able and fun through recognition and team-wide events. Dougs prioritizes purpose, team and community.More about Lulu: She is an adjunct agricultural communica-tions professor. She strives to improve global seed and food More About Doug: He graduated from Purdue University andsecurity. Lulu has a bachelors degree from the University of joined the family seed business as a third-generation seedsman.the Philippines at Los Baos, a masters degree from Cornell His career began in production and retail, progressing districtUniversity, and a Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. sales manager and brand lead. In 2021, Doug returned to HubnerShe was the graduate education director for the ISU Greenlee Industries, leading its growth and serving the corn belt. UnderSchool of Journalism and Communication before directing the his leadership, the company has seen tremendous growth. HeUniversity of Illinois agricultural communications program.enjoys spending time with his family and serving at his church.JAY HULBERTPresident and CEO, Ag Alumni Seed, Inc. PONSI TRIVISVAVET Inari CEOAttributes: Forward-Thinker, Protector,Attributes: Empowering, Collaborative, Developer, Creative, Original Compassionate, Motivating, VisionaryNominators said: Jay has a uniqueNominators said: Ponsis vision, commit-understanding of market sensitivity andment and industry knowledge guide Inaris human consumption trends. He desiresmission to address food security and sus-to explore creative, futuristic ideas. Jaytainability. Shes dedicated to tackling the invests in future-focused innovations while protecting cur- worlds most vexing challenges, but her people-first approach rent interests. He positively impacts the work environment bysets her apart. A servant leader who fosters an inclusive envi-consistently supporting innovative opportunities. He creates anronment, Ponsi leads with humility, empathy and integrity. She environment where employees feel valued and motivated. Heguides success from the inside out, ensuring the company has inspires his team to strive for excellence. Jays leadership has ledthe resources to build a culture of open communication, innova-to significant innovations at Purdue, including advancements intion and collaboration. Ponsi has written dozens of handwrit-nanobiotechnology for cereal crops. He has a creative approachten notes to employees, expressing genuine gratitude for their that stays ahead of the curve. Jays success with novel traits andefforts. She champions a no silos approach and leads the varieties, such as short corn, showcases his ability to support andcharge in diversity. drive groundbreaking projects. More About Ponsi: Her broad management expertise in global More About Jay: He is a seasoned executive with more thanagriculture helped her build Inari into the cutting-edge company. three decades in agribusiness. His career began on the familyShe leads the organization toward achieving its vision of build-farm, and he has since held national and international roles ining a more sustainable global food system in the face of climate production, mergers and acquisitions, strategic planning, saleschange. Prior to joining Inari, she held several leadership roles, and marketing. Jay served as a U.S. Marine Corps officer andincluding president of North America Seeds with Syngenta after holds a bachelors degree from the University of Washington. earning an MBA from Cornell University.SEPTEMBER 2024SEEDWORLD.COM /9'