Insights for CHROs and HR Directors in the Agri-Food Sector
In the agri-food sector, plant and supply chain leaders form the operational backbone of organizations. They ensure that raw materials move efficiently and safely from farm to factory to consumer or retailer—while meeting strict standards for quality, food safety, and sustainability.
A Highly Dynamic Environment
The challenges for these leaders are greater than ever. Rapid technological change, global logistics complexity, stricter regulations, and rising consumer expectations have created a fast-moving and demanding environment. For CHROs and HR Directors, this results in a clear mandate: to identify, attract, and develop a new generation of leaders who can operate effectively in this complexity and create long-term value.
Why This Leadership Group Is Critical
- Drive cost efficiency and reduce waste
- Ensure product quality and compliance with HACCP, FDA, and EFSA
- Manage risks in sourcing and transportation
- Lead diverse frontline teams
- Integrate digital tools into daily operations
The Leadership Gap and Talent Challenges
- An aging workforce
- Increasing role complexity
- High talent mobility
- Difficult plant locations
- New skill requirements, such as data analytics and automation
Rethinking Executive Search
- Broaden search criteria
- Use competency-based assessments
- Partner with specialized search firms
Developing Internal Talent
- Leadership development programs
- Cross-functional rotations
- Mentoring and coaching
- Data-driven talent reviews
Diversity and Inclusion
- Diverse candidate slates
- Bias reduction
- Strengthening inclusive leadership
- Collaboration with educational institutions
Case: Mid-Sized Food Company
- 25% improvement in forecast accuracy
- 15% reduction in lead times
- Increased resilience through supplier diversity
What This Means for HR
The roles of plant and supply chain leaders are evolving rapidly and require modern leadership, digital skills, and strategic agility. CHROs must broaden executive search efforts, strengthen internal development, and promote diversity to build future-proof leadership teams.
Warm regards,
Wilko Grievink
📱 +31 6 553 622 53
✉️ wilko.grievink@hightouchglobal.com
