Meet Ed Barnatt: Corteva’s new Country Leader for the UK & Ireland
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Congratulations on your new role, Ed. What does it mean to you to step into the position of Country Leader, and what is your number one priority as you take on this responsibility?
Thank you. It’s a genuine honour to step into this role, particularly at such a crucial moment. I’ve spent my whole career in this industry, and I’ve seen farmers navigating incredible pressures, from shifting weather patterns to evolving regulatory landscapes. Within these challenges, I also see immense opportunities to innovate and support farmers and their businesses.
My priority is to build on the strong, successful, and class-leading foundations at the heart of Corteva, continuing to work closely with our partners and customers to drive resilient, sustainable, and profitable farm businesses across the UK and Ireland.
You can read more about Ed's appointment into his new role in this press release.
Can you tell us a little more about your background and what led you to join Corteva?
My formative years were spent on the family farm in South Lincolnshire, before I ventured off to study my degree in Agriculture at Harper Adams University. I began my career as a Trainee Agronomist for ProCam in Lincolnshire (where else!), before spending the next six years working for two other manufacturers as a Commercial Business Manager and Key Account Manager.
I was then offered a job by one of my key accounts, Hutchinsons, as an Area Business Manager, where I managed sixteen agronomists and implemented the commercial strategy for the East Midlands region.
Prior to joining the Corteva team, I also worked for Agrii as a National Commercial Manager, where I was responsible for the development and execution of the commercial strategy. Here I worked with agronomy teams, all the way from Norfolk up to the Scottish Borders.
I have always had an affinity for Corteva and the legacy companies, Dow and DuPont, although it was the people I have met over the years and their enthusiastic approach which made Corteva a company I truly respect.
Being a National Commercial Sales Manager was a role that I had a keen interest in since the early days of my career, so when the opportunity arose to join Corteva in that capacity, I grabbed it with both hands. That experience helped prepare me for the Country Leader role and build on the strong foundation that Will established.
Do you have a connection to agriculture outside of your current role?
I have a very strong connection to agriculture, having grown up on a farm which my dad still runs today. It currently operates as a cereals farm, but when I was younger, we grew calabrese, cabbages, onions, potatoes, sugar beet, barley, and wheat, and rotation grass for cattle. I remember being heavily involved with the farm work as there was always lots to do, particularly when we had pigs and poultry too!
To stay connected with the agricultural world beyond the workplace, I have taken on an organisational role within my local Farmers’ Discussion group, helping to find speakers to talk in our meetings, which happen throughout the winter.
Reflecting on your first six months, what has been the most interesting project or a particularly memorable moment in your new role?
I've been fortunate to work on many projects that have led to memorable moments, so it’s difficult to choose just one. I’ll share two that stand out.
First was working with my commercial team on the implementation of new terms for this season from the day I started, which was a rewarding experience and a great learning journey! Another was being part of the Northern Europe Commercial Unit (NECU) Strategy Meeting in Versoix, working with my colleagues across Northern Europe to develop the strategy for Corteva, which was equally rewarding for me.
How do you stay up to date with the latest advancements and trends in agriculture?
I am fortunate to have a wide network of friends, family, and colleagues who work in varying sectors within agriculture. Speaking to them and seeking their opinions helps me to keep in touch with what’s what and what’s not in the UK and beyond.
What advice would you offer to professionals aspiring to pursue a similar career path or leadership role in the agricultural industry?
Developing a strong network across the industry creates a great foundation. Adaptability and collaboration are skills worth honing, as well as observing and listening to your peers to develop your leadership and mentoring skills. Grab any opportunity that comes along but be focussed on what you want to achieve for yourself!
From your perspective, what sets Corteva apart from other companies in the industry?
Corteva is its people. With our positive, can-do, and professional attitude, our small team shapes a company which punches well above its weight and leaves an impact in the agricultural industry.
What are you most looking forward to in the coming year at Corteva?
I’m looking forward to completing a full financial year at Corteva and reflecting on how much we have achieved despite a very challenging spring, the driest one in half a century! Learning from these reflections will help drive the business forward.
Would you recommend Corteva as a place to work?
Absolutely, without a doubt! I’ve felt very welcome here, and all my colleagues across the business work incredibly hard to turn challenges into opportunities.
Lastly, outside of work, where are we most likely to find you or what activities do you enjoy?
When I am not on the farm, you will find me walking the dogs on the beach, watching Formula 1, or the mighty Nottingham Forest. Although, you’ll often find me cheering at various dance competitions across the country, supporting my daughters as a dance dad!
If you are looking for a role with a difference, Corteva is the right choice, providing valuable learning experiences. Find out more about our talented team here.
