Sebastian Talg
“Agriculture is a great industry”
Sebastian Talg joined our Executive Board on September 1. In this interview, the graduate in engineering talks about his affinity for agriculture and the goals he has set for himself.
Many new and exciting tasks await Sebastian Talg at KWS – as a member of the Executive Board, he will assume responsibility for Corn, Cereals, Oilseed Rape/Special Crops, and Marketing & Communications. He was previously Managing Director for all sales and service companies at the agricultural machinery manufacturer Grimme.
Mr. Talg, where does your enthusiasm for agriculture come from?
It’s been there since childhood. (laughs) I grew up in the Lüneburg Heath. Sugarbeet is a big deal there, and my family runs a farm there. I can still remember the orange KWS boxes that the seed used to come in. When I’m in the area, I can indulge my passion again and hop on a tractor.
You’re switching from agricultural machinery to seed – what attracted you to that?
I was with Grimme for a total of 23 years, six of them in the U.S., and I was really very happy there. But then came the point where I wanted a change. I then asked myself what else contributes to the development of agriculture. And it was opportune that KWS was looking for a successor to Peter Hofmann.
“I also run a small farm together with a friend.”
Sebastian Talg
You've only just started, but have you already set yourself any goals?
One of my missions is actually to bring us even closer to our customers, i.e. the farmers. We’ve already taken a big step in this direction internally with Customer Centricity. But I’d like to focus even more strongly on it. Proximity to the product or the field is important to me, as is rekindling enthusiasm for agriculture in more people – because it really is a great industry.
How was the preparation for your new position on the Executive Board?
Very pleasant. I actually brought long questionnaires with me to the meetings with the Executive Board members, and everyone took a lot of time over them. Of course, I also did quite a bit of private studying. (laughs) ) I picked up all kinds of books for the long winter days and read a lot to familiarize myself.
Does the new start fill you with anticipation?
Sure, I’m really excited to get to know a new company and look forward to working with the KWS team and by fellow Executive Board members. Many acquaintances who have heard about my move are already calling me to ask for advice on certain varieties – but I still need to read up more on that. Together with a friend, I also run a small farm where we grow cereals, corn, potatoes and vegetables over an area of 50 hectares. Hopefully, I’ll still have time for that – otherwise, I might have to lend a hand at one of KWS’ farms. |
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