Jeroen has been active in the seed industry for over 40 years, most recently serving as Commercial Director at one of our partner companies, De Groot en Slot. He has been involved with Seed Valley right from the start: as a board member, treasurer, and now, with great enthusiasm, he has taken on the role of Chairman. It’s a great opportunity to ask him a few questions.
Jeroen de Haas
Jeroen, you’ve been working in this sector for over 40 years. How did you get into the industry?
“As a farmer’s son, I had a strong connection to agriculture from a young age. During my studies at the Higher Agricultural School in Deventer, I first encountered the fascinating world of grass seed during an internship. That was where my interest for the sector was sparked and, speaking figuratively, the seed was planted. During an internship in the U.S., I came across the unique Seed Production and Technology program at Oregon State University. Eager to deepen my knowledge, I managed to secure funding from a seed breeding company to follow the course. After completing the program, I joined the company and since then the seed industry has had a grip on me. I’ve held various technical and commercial roles in agriculture and vegetable seeds, and for the last 15 years, I was Director at De Groot en Slot.”
You recently became the new Chairman of the board. What is the composition of the board, and what are you focusing on?
“I was a board member of Seed Valley for over ten years, and treasurer for the last few years. This year, I had the chance to step into the role of Chairman when my predecessor, Erik-Jan Bartels, stepped down. Even though I am retired, my passion for the sector still burns as strong as ever. That’s why I decided to seize the opportunity. The board has recently been renewed and there are some new faces: Jan Willem Griep (Treasurer, Syngenta), Han Botterhuis (Board Member, Incotec), and Rick van Zoeren (Board Member, Bayer), and Delia Bakker who leads the program office. Together, we are working on a long-term strategy for the next five years and a strategic reassessment. It’s exciting to work on shaping the future of Seed Valley with this enthusiastic team, and I look forward to seeing our ambitious plans come to fruition!”
Seed Valley is committed to attracting potential talent. How would you like to be recognised by potential talent?
“Seed Valley is the gateway to a thriving career in the seed industry. What sets us apart is that we not only open doors to our member companies and partners, but we also paint the big picture. We are the driving force behind the region and the sector, a powerful brand synonymous with growth and progress for over 15 years. Here, you have the chance to build up a career with countless opportunities for growth and job security. Whether you’re just starting or ready to take the next step in your career, everyone can make a difference. Our sector is high-tech and internationally oriented — you can travel the world for your profession while contributing to one of the world’s greatest challenges: feeding the world. With us, it’s not just the sector that is growing, it’s your job too, as well as your personal development.”
You were once a starter yourself. With all your experience, what advice would you like to give to starters?
“Let your curiosity drive your career! When I came from the farm, I already had some knowledge of plants, but I knew there was so much more to discover. I seized every opportunity when I was studying. It’s wonderful to be part of the bigger picture, and the agricultural school was the perfect way into the world of plants and seeds. My advice to newcomers is to stay curious and be willing to take risks. Show courage and seize the opportunities that come your way. The seed industry is constantly evolving and continues to play a crucial role in our world. Whether you come from an agricultural background or not, the growth in this sector offers endless possibilities for anyone willing to challenge themselves. Dare to dream, dare to act, and help build the future of the seed industry.”
I sense a lot of enthusiasm from both your personal development and the development of Seed Valley. How will this reflect in what we see in the coming years?
“Absolutely! In my 40 years in the seed industry, I’ve learned that continuous development is key to success! At Seed Valley, this enthusiasm shines through our dynamic collaboration with new, driven individuals and the new plans we’ve developed. In the past few months, the Board has carried out a strategic reassessment, resulting in fantastic new plans. At the end of this year, we will proudly present these plans to our members, and then we will share them externally to inspire and attract new talent. Together, we are building a flourishing and future-proof Seed Valley!”