Koen Brinkman - Managing Director Pig & Poultry, ForFarmers Netherlands
There is a lot of laughter and celebration at ForFarmers. However, it's serious business at the animal feed company, as they are facing challenging circumstances in animal husbandry. This necessitated a change in direction. "We have faced turbulent times before and have demonstrated entrepreneurship and courage."
Koen Brinkman - Managing Director Pig & Poultry
The relevant topics in animal husbandry still make headlines almost daily. The internationally operating feed company sees itself playing an important role in this. Managing Director Pig & Poultry, Koen Brinkman, focuses mainly on the farmyard and on developing the sector within the chain, exploring sector-wide solutions with his team for broilers, laying hens, and pigs."
What kind of solutions are you talking about?
"One of the directions is meat concepts. We are looking at the opportunities presented by retail demand and its impact on the sector. However, striving for sustainable leadership in animal husbandry first requires returns on the farm. That's why it's essential for us to be an objective, down-to-earth, and progressive partner for farmers, chain parties, and retail."
Do you see enough opportunities despite the pressure on animal husbandry?
"Absolutely. We have a strong market share in laying hens and broilers in a mature market that we want to expand. Given the developments in pig farming, it's essential to be flexible enough to switch quickly. Being sharp on feed costs and price competitiveness is crucial. And we achieve that with our complete feed solutions, as we managed to grow against the market trend."
You mentioned earlier that you need to be progressive to tackle future challenges. Is ForFarmers living up to that?
"We have faced turbulent times before and have demonstrated entrepreneurship and courage. We dare to take unconventional steps! This has allowed us to create breakthroughs in the market. It hasn't always been successful, but ForFarmers is not shy to admit mistakes. Our commitment to the sector is deeply ingrained."
There is a lot happening not only in the sector itself but also internally. What can you tell us about the changes?
"Fairly recently, adjustments have been made to the organizational structure and strategy. We have transitioned to local teams, are closer to the farmer, delegate more responsibility to the shop floor, and focus on sustainable animal husbandry. By playing a faster game, we can make the right decisions to be successful. We see that this tactic is paying off. The atmosphere has improved, there is renewed confidence that the company is on the right track. This is noticed by others as well. We hear: 'Wow, things are going well for you, aren't they?' That is a huge motivator."
Is this also the reason why you returned to the old stomping grounds? Because you were away for about a year and a half.
"That's right. When ForFarmers asked me to return, we first discussed the strategic future perspective. Long-term perspective is what drives me. Since I have always been committed to this theme, I came back. The dedication and loyalty of the employees give me a lot of energy. In addition, ForFarmers has offered me various career opportunities, and I have seized them with both hands. Of course, I have stumbled in the past, but I got up and received the company's support to come back into my strength."
You've been working for ForFarmers for almost 18 years. What keeps you there?
"When I started here in 2005, we had about 250 colleagues; now we have over 2500. Despite the huge growth and changes, ForFarmers is still a close-knit unit. The driving force remains the same: delivering good performance on the farm, for our customers. I always ask myself: 'How does this benefit the farmer?' The energy, work ethic, and commitment of my colleagues motivate me to do the same."
There are other companies like yours. What sets you apart?
"We are a unique company in our industry. Our focus is always on achieving good results on the farm. The transition to a more sustainable livestock farming industry continues to depend on profitability in the barn. We provide total solutions for that, with the best people. Additionally, we are listed on the stock exchange, which requires a high level of professionalism in our operations. A major shareholder is the Coöperatie FromFarmers. Through this channel, we also receive input on our long-term approach. It's a unique situation where we are deeply connected to livestock farming from all sides."
What is the atmosphere like in the workplace?
"We like to celebrate our successes, which is also necessary to fuel the energy for everything we are working on. The canteens have an informal and friendly atmosphere. Office staff, sales teams, factory workers: we all have lunch together. And no matter who you talk to in the organization, everyone feels involved in the company. There are simply few hierarchical lines."
What does ForFarmers offer in terms of personal development?
"ForFarmers values helping employees develop their talents. Under the motto: If you're happy in your work, you contribute best to ForFarmers' development and to things that are beneficial on the farm. For me, the top priority is to achieve profitability on the farm together with motivated and talented employees."
How would you describe your leadership style?
"I can be sharp and critical to push ourselves to the maximum. I always see opportunities to do better. At the same time, there is a lot of laughter. Most of my sessions end with: Thanks for the laughter."
That sounds positive! What else would be a reason to join ForFarmers?
"If you want to grow yourself and also help build something, you've come to the right place with us. Those who love color, dynamism, change, and have the ambition to contribute to the long-term ambition of livestock farming will find a fascinating challenge with us."
Ready to take the next step? Then get in touch with us.
Photo: Ingrid Sweers
[Published: December 2023]
