By Jamie Martin
Succession planning is gaining importance as a key driver of hiring in the agriculture and food industry. Employers are focusing on preparing for workforce changes, including retirements, career growth, and future talent requirements.
Recent findings from AgCareers show that organizations are taking a long-term approach to workforce planning. They are investing in employee retention, leadership readiness, and structured replacement planning to manage ongoing labor needs.
As part of this effort, the 2026 AgCareers Agriculture and Food Roundtable Conference will include a dedicated session on succession planning. The event will take place from August 4 to 6 in Champaign, Illinois. The session will be led by Jay Lux, a leadership and organizational development expert from FCCS Consulting.
“Succession planning is often misunderstood as a reactive measure, something to revisit only when a vacancy occurs, or an executive retires,” said Lux. “However, genuinely strategic organizations treat it as a continuous, year-round discipline that ensures leadership continuity, develops internal talent, and drives employee engagement,” adds Lux.
The session will examine several important areas, including aligning business strategies with talent planning, identifying important roles, and preparing employees for advancement. It will also cover how to build effective succession plans that support growth, reduce risks, and improve organizational resilience.
Another key focus will be the evaluation of talent. Lux explains that individuals with strong communication skills and personality may not always have the required leadership capabilities. Companies need to carefully assess both performance and leadership potential to make better decisions.
The AgCareers Roundtable Conference serves as a platform for employers, educators, and industry professionals to share ideas and discuss workforce challenges. The event provides practical strategies to improve recruitment, talent development, and workforce management.
In addition, senior professionals can attend the Executive and Senior Leadership Forum. This program offers focused insights to help leaders strengthen their skills and make a greater impact on the evolving agriculture and food industry.
Photo Credit: AgCareers Agriculture & Food Roundtable Conference
Categories: National