Meet Ed Barnatt: Commercial Sales Manager for UK & Ireland at Corteva
Something went wrong. Please try again later...
Can you tell us a little about your background and what led you to join Corteva?
My formative years were spent on the family farm in South Lincolnshire, before venturing off to study my degree on Agriculture at Harper Adams University. I began my career as a trainee agronomist for Procam in Lincolnshire (where else!) before spending the next 6 years working for two other manufacturers (who will remain nameless) 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, managing 16 agronomists and implementing the Commercial Strategy for the East Midlands region.
Prior to joining the Corteva team, I worked for Agrii as a National Commercial Manager, responsible for the development and execution of the Commercial Strategy with agronomy Teams from Norfolk to the Scottish Borders.
I have also had an affinity for Corteva and the legacy companies, Dow and DuPont, through the people I have met throughout the years and their positive, professional and enthusiastic approach, making Corteva a company I respect. Being a National Commercial Sales Manager is a role I’ve had my eye on since the early days of my career, so when the opportunity arose to join Corteva and take such a role, I grabbed it with both hands!
Do you have a connection to agriculture outside of your current role?
I have a very strong connection to agriculture, as I grew up on a farm which my dad still runs today and I am heavily involved whenever I can. It is a Cereals based farm today, but growing up, we grew calabrese, cabbages, onions, potatoes, sugar beet, barley and wheat, as well as some rotation grass for the cattle. There was always lots to do and I learned a lot about many crops and livestock as we had some pigs and poultry too! I’m also on the organising committee for the local Farmers Discussion group, helping get speakers in for the meetings which run annually over the winter months.
Reflecting on your first six months, what has been the most interesting project or a particularly memorable moment in your new role?
I have been fortunate to have been involved in a lot of projects which in turn have given me several memorable moments. It’s difficult to narrow down to just one, so I will give two: working with my Commercial Team on the implementation of new terms for this season from the day I started has been a rewarding experience and great learning journey. Another one was being involved in the NECU Strategy Meeting in Versoix, working with my colleagues from 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’m lucky to have a wide network of friends, family, and colleagues across different agricultural sectors, which helps me stay up to date with trends in the UK and beyond.
What advice would you offer to professionals aspiring to pursue a similar career path or leadership role in the agriculture industry?
I think developing a strong network across the industry creates a good foundation. Adaptability and collaboration are skills worth honing, as well as observing and listening to your peers in order to gain experience of leadership and mentoring. 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 fosters a company that 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?
I absolutely, positively would without doubt. I’ve felt very welcomed here and all my colleagues across all the teams within the business work very hard to deal with the challenges we face, turning them into opportunities instead.
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 could find me walking the dogs on the beach, watching Formula 1 or the mighty Nottingham Forest, but more often you’ll find me traveling around the country to support my daughters at dance competitions!
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.
