The Western Canadian Wheat Growers Association is pleased to announce Robin Speer has been appointed the new Executive Director of the Wheat Growers.
“We’re pleased to have Robin on board, taking on this important new role at an exciting time for prairie wheat growers,” said Levi Wood, President of the Wheat Growers. “With his successes in agriculture, and his management and public affairs experience, Robin will be a great asset for the Wheat Growers and will help us advance positive changes in agriculture.”
Originally from North Battleford, SK, Speer brings diverse experience in the agriculture industry in Canada, including having previously served as Manager of Government and Commercial Relations at Viterra, as well as Vice President of Public Affairs at the Canadian Renewable Fuels Association. Speer has also worked extensively in the policy-making arena, including on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, the Saskatchewan Legislature in Regina, and as a government relations and public policy professional in the agriculture industry and other sectors.
“I’m excited to be joining such an important and effective grower organization,” said Speer. “From my eight great-grandparents homesteading on the prairies over a century ago, to my family, in-laws, friends, and colleagues who farm here today, western Canada continues to be the place to be, and the ag sector continues to be as important as ever.”
Reporting to the Board of Directors, Speer will serve the members of the Wheat Growers by working collaboratively with other agricultural organizations, industry partners, and governments. As well, administration and operations of the Wheat Growers will be transitioned to and consolidated in Saskatoon by the summer of 2016.
“I look forward to working closely with the Board and outgoing Executive Director in the coming months,” said Speer. “There will continue to be strong advocacy efforts for a more efficient grain handling and transportation system, for ensuring sound and science-based environmental and food safety policies, and for expanding market access, on top of many other key priorities for wheat growers in western Canada now and for the long term.”
Speer holds a BA in Political Studies from the University of Saskatchewan and a MA in Public Policy and Management form the University of York.
