Expert leadership appointed for the plant science industry

CropLife Australia is pleased to announce the re-election of Mr Paul Luxton, Territory Head – ANZ and Managing Director for Syngenta Australia, to continue to serve as President of Australia’s national peak industry organisation for the plant science sector.

Mr Luxton will be joined on CropLife’s Executive by highly-regarded industry leaders with a vast wealth of knowledge and expertise:

In addition to the Executive, the following people will serve as Directors on the CropLife Australia Board for the 2018‑19 year:

• Mr Darrin Hines, Chief Executive Officer, Adama Australia
• Mr Rob Kaan, Managing Director – Australia/New Zealand, CORTEVA Agriscience (Agricultural Division of DowDuPont)
• Ms Kristina Hermanson, Country Manager, FMC Australasia Pty Ltd
• Mr Peter O’Keefe, ANZ Regional General Manager, Nufarm Australia Limited
• Mr Tony Brookes, Managing Director, Sumitomo Chemical Australia Pty Limited

The CropLife Executive and Board provide important strategic guidance for the organisation, led by Chief Executive Officer, Matthew Cossey.

Mr Cossey today said, “CropLife Australia continues to act as a strong voice for the plant science sector. Considering the challenges faced by Australian agriculture, the importance of professional and dedicated advocacy for our industry is as important as ever.

“Farmers here and around the world face very significant and increasing challenges as they seek to produce more nutritious, safe, disease-free and affordable food, feed and fibre for the world’s growing population. Farmer access to technology and innovation is crucial for the growth in agriculture and its sustainability.

“When it comes to supporting Australian farmers to increase productivity and profitability in a sustainable manner, there is no sector more important than plant science.  Our industry is continuing to invest billions of dollars in R&D every year to assist meeting the farming needs of the future.

“CropLife Australia is fortunate to represent the best of the plant science industry. To have a Board with a passion for agriculture and plant science, and extensive industry experience will be extremely valuable to guide CropLife Australia at such a critical time,” Mr Cossey concluded.