Agri-Business Veteran Craig Newman Elected Chairman of American Seed Trade Association

ALEXANDRIA, VA (July 1, 2013) – Seed industry leader Craig Newman, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, a long-time champion for the seed trade on the state, regional and national levels, was recently elected to lead the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) as it enters its 130th year of promoting the research, development and movement of quality seed.

In his acceptance speech delivered at the association’s annual convention in June, Newman spoke enthusiastically about his priorities as Chairman of the ASTA Board of Directors.

“I look forward to taking some concrete steps toward strengthening intellectual property rights; expanding international business opportunities; building a powerful grassroots force for resolving federal, state and local seed trade issues; and continuing to make ASTA a high-value resource for the seed industry,” he said.

The industry is certain to benefit from Newman’s leadership experience and enthusiasm, said ASTA president and CEO, Andrew W. LaVigne. “Each chairman brings varied knowledge, perspectives and priorities that enhance the value of the association to its broad-based membership,” he said. “Each also brings a unique style and Craig’s exuberance will no doubt drive the tone of our outreach efforts.”

Newman challenged the ASTA members to “start your engines” as he announced that the 131st annual convention would be held in Indianapolis, the home of the “greatest spectacle in racing,” the Indy 500.

Newman had previously served on ASTA’s Board of Directors as the second, then first, vice chair and as the Central Region vice president representing the interests of members in Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Ohio. He has also served as president of the Illinois Seed Dealers Association. Currently, the President and CEO of AgReliant Genetics, LLC, Newman’s interest in agriculture dates back to his childhood, where he was raised on a corn, soybean and hog farm near Veedersburg, Indiana, then earned a bachelor’s degree from Purdue University in Agricultural Business Management.

Education continues to be a passion of Newman’s and increasing educational and training opportunities for ASTA members are among his objectives for upcoming seed research conferences. “Things are moving rapidly in our industry – there are significant developments in science, business and policy so continued education is critical,” he said.

After eight years as a sales representative and sales manager for Procter & Gamble, Newman began his career in the seed business with Akin Seed Company in St. Francisville, Illinois. He held various positions with Akin Seed, Callahan Seeds and AgriGold Hybrids, including General Manager, before the company became a division of AgReliant Genetics in 2000. Newman served as the AgReliant Genetics vice president of sales and marketing from its inception until 2012 when he transitioned to his current role as President and CEO. Today, AgReliant Genetics is the No. 3 seed corn company in the United States.

Newman and his wife, Sue, live in Mt. Carmel, Illinois where he enjoys spending time with their children and grandchildren.