Editor’s note: The following profile is from the 2024 Packer 25, our annual tribute to 25 leaders, innovators and agents of change across the fresh produce supply chain. (You can view all honorees here.) This feature has been edited for length and clarity.
Josh VanDeWalle — Director of value chain engagement, Bayer Crop Science
As director of value chain engagement at Bayer Crop Science, Josh VanDeWalle leads strategic relationships with major food processors and grocery retailers to create shared value and advance Bayer’s sustainability commitments. He supports innovation and advocates for farmer needs in the food value chain.
VanDeWalle grew up on a farm in Nebraska and has vast experience working with farmers and agricultural retailers, including 12 years at Bayer. He holds an MBA from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and resides in St. Louis with his wife and son.
What do you think are the most important aspects of developing and maintaining relationships with supply chain stakeholders?
I believe that being authentic and intentional with stakeholders is especially important to developing and maintaining relationships. Also, it is important to add value to every discussion by leveraging my expertise and connections.
I see myself as a connector. I strive to grow and maintain contacts within Bayer and others in the industry so that I can grow not only my understanding, but [also] to share that with my network. For me, highlighting my experiences with farmers and my family has helped to build strong relationships with stakeholders.
What do you consider the most satisfying part of your work, and why?
The most satisfying part of my work is representing the farmer point of view with stakeholders. Farmers are not always considered when food companies are developing sustainability requirements. I see this as an opportunity to help the food value-chain scale impact while helping farmers to take advantage of the sustainable practices that they are implementing. Farmers have a remarkable story to share, and I aspire to help them tell it.
What is a lesson you learned earlier in your career that still holds true in your work?
I learned that it is particularly important to listen to customers and stakeholders to understand their point of view before providing a solution. By better understanding their pain points, I can more appropriately address their concerns and connect them to potential solutions.
