Hendrix Genetics, the market leader in animal genetics, announces the appointment of Jolanda van Haarlem as Chief Executive Officer. She’ll start at Hendrix Genetics on 1 March 2021, and after a short transition period, will take over the position of Antoon van den Berg, who will step down after a successful period of 16 years as CEO. Jolanda van Haarlem has extensive international management experience in the agribusiness and animal nutrition industry.
Van Haarlem has been the head of Cargill Animal Nutrition EMEAR, a leading player in the field of animal nutrition and services in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Russia, since September 2018. Before that, she held several other senior management positions at Cargill, including Managing Director China. Before Van Haarlem started at Cargill, she worked at Provimi, EBI Food Safety, Quest International and Friesland Campina, namely in sales and management positions. Van Haarlem graduated in Applied Sciences and also obtained an MBA at the Henley Business University in the United Kingdom.
This change to its leadership and governance structure is part of Hendrix Genetics’ Vision 2025 strategic plan. With Van Haarlem’s appointment, the founders of Hendrix Genetics, Thijs Hendrix and Antoon van den Berg will step down from their current management positions and positions in the Executive Committee. However, they will remain shareholders of Hendrix Genetics and will continue to be closely involved in the company’s future development.
Under the leadership of Hendrix and Van den Berg, Hendrix Genetics underwent a strong period of growth since 2005. The company now has operations in 25 countries, employs 3,500 people and breeds seven animal species. CEO Antoon van den Berg: ‘It has been a real pleasure to lead Hendrix Genetics and to see the company grow. Today, we are well-positioned to continue building on the strong dynamics that we put in place ourselves. Therefore, I am thrilled to welcome Jolanda to the company. Her track record, extensive international experience and skills make her the ideal leader to guide the company into a new era of growth and market leadership.’
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