Jeroen de Haas appointed as new Chair of Seed Valley

Jeroen has been active in the world of seeds for more than 40 years and most recently worked as Commercial Director at our partner De Groot en Slot. He has been involved with Seed Valley since its foundation, first as a board member, then as treasurer, and recently he has enthusiastically taken on the role of Chair. A great reason to ask him a few questions.

Jeroen, you have now been working in the sector for more than 40 years. How did you become involved in this industry?

“As the son of a farmer, I had a strong connection with agriculture from an early age. During my studies at the Higher Agricultural School in Deventer, I was introduced to the fascinating world of grass seed during an internship. This is where the seed was literally planted, and my interest in the sector began.

During an internship in the United States, I discovered the unique Seed Production and Technology programme at Oregon State University. I wanted to deepen my knowledge by following this programme and found a seed breeding company willing to finance my studies. After graduating, I joined this company.

From that moment on, the seed sector never let me go. I held various commercial and technical roles in agricultural and vegetable seeds, and for the last 15 years I was Managing Director at De Groot en Slot.”

And now you are the new Chair of the Seed Valley board. What does the board look like and what are you working on?

“I have been a board member of Seed Valley for more than ten years, with the last few years as treasurer. This year, I was given the opportunity to take on the role of Chair when my predecessor Erik-Jan Bartels stepped down.

Although I am retired, my passion for the sector is still just as strong. That is why I decided to embrace this challenge wholeheartedly.

The board has recently been renewed, with several new faces: Jan Willem Griep (Treasurer, Syngenta), Han Botterhuis (Board Member, Incotec), and Rick van Zoeren (Board Member, Bayer), along with Delia Bakker, who leads the programme office.

Together, we are working on a long-term strategy for the next five years and a strategic reassessment of our direction. It feels fantastic to shape the future of Seed Valley together with this enthusiastic team, and I look forward to turning our ambitious plans into reality!”

Seed Valley is committed to attracting future talent. How would you like potential talent to see Seed Valley?

“Seed Valley is the gateway to a thriving career in the seed sector. What sets us apart is that we do not only open the doors to our affiliated companies and partners, but also show the bigger picture.

We are a driving force for the region and the sector: a strong brand that has represented growth and progress for more than 15 years.

Here, you have the opportunity to build your career with countless development opportunities and job security. Whether you are just starting out or looking for your next career step, there is room for everyone to make a difference.

Our sector is high-tech and internationally oriented — you can travel the world for your work while contributing to one of the greatest challenges of our time: feeding the world.

At Seed Valley, not only does the sector grow, but so do your career and personal development.”

You also started out as a young professional yourself. After all your experience, what message would you like to share with starters?

“Let curiosity be the engine of 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 embraced every opportunity during my studies with full commitment. It is amazing to be part of something bigger, and agricultural school was the perfect stepping stone for me into the world of plants and seeds.

My advice to starters is to always stay curious and be willing to take risks. Show courage and seize the opportunities that come your way.

The seed sector is constantly evolving and continues to play a crucial role in our world. Whether you come from an agricultural background or not, this sector offers endless opportunities for anyone willing to challenge themselves.

Dare to dream, dare to take action, and help build the future of the seed industry.”

I can sense a lot of enthusiasm from both your personal journey and the development of Seed Valley. Where will we see this reflected in the coming years?

“Absolutely! My 40 years in the seed sector have shown me that continuous development is essential for success. I see this same enthusiasm at Seed Valley in the energetic collaboration with new, driven people and the innovative plans we have developed.

In recent months, the board has carried out a strategic reassessment, which has resulted in exciting new plans. At the end of this year, we will proudly present these plans to our members, after which we will communicate them externally to inspire and attract future talent.

Together, we are building a future-proof and thriving Seed Valley!”