Mark Thompson on building a talent pipeline in ag

Published: Oct 29, 2020

 “It’s important that we continue to grow the talent pipeline in agriculture and get the next generation interested in what I believe is among the most vital industries on the planet. A career in agriculture offers a platform to drive innovation, bringing new energy and fresh perspectives to opportunities and challenges that are so critical to society,” says Mark Thompson, Executive Vice President, Chief Corporate Development & Strategy Officer.

Mark is certainly doing his part in this regard. He recently brought a career in agriculture into broad focus, when he was named one of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40. This prestigious award identifies outstanding achievers under the age of 40 in Canadian business – innovators who are changing the way things are done, inspiring others and giving back to their communities and country. 

While Mark’s win is an exceptional personal achievement, he’s just as pleased that it will act as a great promotion for the agriculture industry, since winners have more commonly come from the banking or tech sectors. As a member of Nutrien’s Executive Leadership Team, he has held several diverse roles throughout his nearly 10 years with the company, and believes that one of the keys to attracting new talent is the opportunity for personal growth and a connection to a company’s purpose. 

According to a survey by the Case Foundation, nearly nine in 10 millennials feel they are working for an organization that is making a positive impact on the world. Mark hopes that his award will highlight the importance of Nutrien’s purpose – to grow our world from the ground up – and get the attention of even more new faces.

“For me, the biggest win that could come from this recognition would be to highlight that a career in agriculture can be both exciting and extremely rewarding. The opportunities ag offers to innovate and grow in a sector that is shaping a better future are outstanding,” says Mark. “I hope this award also showcases Nutrien as a leading employer that provides the opportunities for its people to grow and thrive, both personally and professionally.”