Minnesota Ag Connection - Syngenta's Diversity, Inclusion Creates Satisfaction and Value

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Syngenta's Diversity, Inclusion Creates Satisfaction and Value
Minnesota Ag Connection - 12/01/2016

A global diversity and inclusion policy is helping Syngenta leverage differences, catalyze innovation, maximize performance and create business value for its more than 28,000 employees worldwide. The policy is also having an impact on the company's customers in the U.S.

"A diverse and inclusive workforce enables us to embrace unique perspectives and capabilities of our employees and, therefore, create business value for our customers in a challenging marketplace," said Ponsi Trivisvavet, president of Syngenta Seeds, LLC.

As part of its commitment to diversity and inclusion, Syngenta is the presenting sponsor of a new television series, "FarmHer on RFD-TV." All episodes include 30-second #RootedinAg Spotlights, featuring many of the women affiliated with Syngenta--both customers and employees alike--whose agricultural roots are helping their industry and communities thrive. One of those women is Kelsey Vance, a Syngenta sales representative from O'Fallon, Ill.

"We're all working toward the same goal: to grow the best crop possible and feed an ever-growing population," said Vance."There are so many different roles in agriculture. We need to look beyond the stereotypical image of what a career in agriculture means for women."

Vance credits her mentor, Teresa McNeal, for teaching her that females in a male-dominated industry are in a unique position to leave a lasting impression.

"It's not just about diversity in hiring, but diversity of thought," said McNeal, U.S. head of customer marketing for seeds at Syngenta and one of the company's diversity and inclusion champions. "One of my primary roles as a champion is to help identify ways to bring groups together to advance employee enthusiasm, professional development and community engagement. In my 18-plus years with the company, I've never been prouder to work for Syngenta."

Others have begun to take notice of this commitment. Women in Agribusiness (WIA) recently recognized Syngenta as its company of the year for workplace diversity during a ceremony at the WIA Summit in Chicago. Along with this honor, Syngenta received WIA's Demeter Award, which acknowledges the outstanding achievements of individuals and businesses that are creating positive results in retaining, recruiting and promoting women in the ag sector.

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