Meet Alex Nichols: Marketing Manager for UK & Ireland at Corteva
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Can you tell us a little about your background and what led you to join Corteva?
I have always had an affinity for agriculture. I was born and raised in rural Somerset, and as a teenager I worked on a small dairy farm. I then studied biology at the University of Bristol. While I was there, I started working on an arable farm based at an arable crop research institute.
Inspired by arable farming, I undertook a Masters in Crop Protection and later worked as research agronomist. In this role, I really enjoyed demonstrating and communicating crop trials to farmers and agronomists. Next, I worked for the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries (MAFF) as a farm adviser on Agri-environment schemes in various parts of the UK, which led to opportunities to work in policy development as well as team and project leadership.
At this point, I developed a strong interest in food security, recognising its link to innovation in agriculture, and was fortunate to be offered a role as Area Sales Manager for Cambridgeshire and Lincolnshire at Corteva. I later became the Marketing Manager for the UK and Ireland, which is the position I hold today!
Do you have a connection to agriculture outside of your role at Corteva?
My grandfather was a dairy nutritionist and owned a small pig-rearing farm in Somerset; some of my earliest memories are of the pigs and the rural idyll where they lived. I now live in Suffolk and have many close friends who are farmers, and I’m a judge for the South Suffolk Agricultural Association crop competition.
What has been the most interesting project you’ve worked on at Corteva, or can you share a standout moment from your time in this role?
It’s hard to pick as there have been so many, but one highlight for me was launching the Arylex™ Active herbicide in cereal crops, which debuted a new active ingredient. It was a privilege to introduce a range of new products based on this Active. In my role as the Cereal Herbicide Product Manager, I developed the technical and commercial positioning of the products and deliver a campaign to raise awareness with agronomists and farmers.
How do you stay up to date with the latest advancements and trends in agriculture?
I’m an avid reader of various farming publications; I listen to agricultural podcasts and follow many influencers on various social media platforms. At the same time, my network of farming friends keeps me close to what is happening at the forefront of agriculture.
What advice would you give to someone aspiring to follow a similar career path as you?
My advice: work hard and don’t be afraid to try new things. Stay open to opportunities and keep your eye on the big picture!
From your perspective, what sets Corteva apart from other companies in the industry?
We are a close team that supports each other well, in some ways it feels like being part of a family! The drive to innovate and develop solutions to the big global challenges that agriculture faces is at the heart of what Corteva does, binding the organisation together.
What are you most looking forward to in the coming year at Corteva?
We’ve just come off the back of an incredible year of seven new product launches, and while we have more to launch in 2026, it will be great to work on campaigns to raise awareness for these new options that help UK farmers face a variety of challenges.
Would you recommend Corteva as a place to work?
100%! The purpose, people, products and pipeline all combine to make it a great place to work!
Outside of work, where are we most likely to find you or what activities do you enjoy?
I am a keen gardener and enjoy growing vegetables and fruit as it keeps me in touch with my inner farmer!
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.
