Top Florida Growers Provide Valuable Insights on Leadership
December 30, 2019 As we close the books on 2019 and look to 2020, it is a good time to reboot and come at the new year with a refreshed attitude and energy. In October, I introduced our Opportunity 2020 campaign, which will deliver ideas, innovation, and practices that will give you an edge in your business and your life.
During Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association’s (FFVA) Annual Convention, a panel comprised of some of Florida’s best specialty crop growers — Marie Bedner, Aaron Troyer, Paul Orsenigo, and Paul Allen — discussed what it takes to be good leader.
The panel was on the agenda for the benefit of the graduating and incoming classes of FFVA’s Emerging Leader Development Program, but I am sure everyone in the room left with some good nuggets of wisdom. The leadership program is currently educating its ninth class. The 100 young adults that have gone through the program are assuming leadership roles in FFVA on its board and various committees
In the spirit of Opportunity 2020, I thought I would share some of the insights from the panel discussion.
Lifelong Learning: All the panelists described the importance of continuous improvement regardless of how long you have been in a leadership position. Troyer noted that education comes from getting out of your comfort zone to challenge yourself in new areas. He cited being uncomfortable with public speaking in his younger days — a fear that he has since conquered.
“You need to stretch yourself and go to places where you are not that comfortable,” he said. “Because if you are too comfortable, you probably are not growing.”
Orsenigo suggested you tap into the local knowledge around you. He said he learned a lot from the “pioneer” farmers in the Everglades Agricultural Area where he farms.
“I asked these growers for their knowledge, and they gave me knowledge,” he said. “I am grateful for all those people that took time to answer a question and give me advice.”
Recognizing Potential: The panelists also said successful organizations recognize the power of people to make a difference. “Surround yourself with really good people to help you do what you want to do, but also bring vision and new ideas,” Troyer noted.
“One my Mom’s favorite sayings is, ‘Everybody has their good points and bad points — focus on the good ones,’” Allen noted. “That has carried me a long way. Part of the culture in our company is building on that.”
Bedner added that the younger generation wants to make a difference and is purpose driven. She said it is important to empower talented individuals in your business to have an impact. People working with purpose are passionate about what they do.
Keep it all in Perspective: Farming is not easy, and the challenges often seem insurmountable. Orsenigo said it is important to be grateful and appreciate even the small things.
“As I get a little older, spiritual growth has become more important,” he said. “Digesting the things that happen every day and appreciating those things from a more meaningful place, is important.”
It was evident that all the panelists were grateful to be farmers. A number of times voices cracked with emotion as they reflected on their businesses, and more importantly, their lives. Finally, they approach leadership with a spirit of service, and that is reflected in the success of their farms.
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