Robert’s dedication to the agricultural sector was firmly grounded early in life as a 5th generation family farmer in Elmvale, Canada. Over the years Robert has developed a passion to be an advocate for agriculture, for farmers and the rural communities they support.

After Robert left the farm, he has worked in industry positions based in China, Canada, Belgium and the United States. In these international experiences Robert has learned the landscape of global agriculture and implemented business strategies where farmers, industry, academia, NGO’s and governments have all played a vital role.

Robert is currently Chief Operating Officer for CropLife International, supporting the plant science R&D companies in their purpose-driven mission to advance innovation in agriculture to enable sustainable food systems.

Robert holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Guelph. He currently lives in Washington, DC with his husband Geoffrey.