Meet Corteva’s Field Sales Manager for UK and Ireland: An interview with Caroline McCartney
Something went wrong. Please try again later...
Tell us a little bit about your role at Corteva?
As the Field Sales Manager for Corteva UK and Ireland, I lead our fantastic sales team across both regions. My role is to ensure that each team member is supported in their activities, driving success and growth for our organisation.
Do you have a connection to agriculture outside of Corteva?
Yes, I grew up working on a dairy and arable farm. When I finished my A-levels I wanted to get away from agriculture, leading me to follow my love for science and complete a degree in biology instead. Yet when I found myself at university and away from the farm, I realised it was such a big part of who I am, so I moved back to the family farm and worked for a further 3 years, which really helped me gain real farm experience.
Can you describe your journey to becoming a Sales Manager at Corteva?
I wanted to find a career that would combine my passion for agriculture with my love of science, so when I joined Corteva I worked on trials initially and spent the majority of my almost 12 years at Corteva in technical roles.
While doing my technical role I was given the opportunity to study for a BASIS qualification which I achieved over a 12-month period.
Undertaking the BASIS qualification gave me the knowledge and confidence to apply as an Area Manager for the East Midlands regions. Being an Area Manager was an exciting and varied role, I enjoyed being out on farms talking to agronomists. I now operate as a Sales Manager, working with a great team of Area Managers across UK and Ireland. The best bit about my current role is working with people, I always loved coaching and aspired to move into people management.
What has been the most thrilling project you've worked on at Corteva?
I've been at Corteva for nearly 12 years and there are a lot to choose from!
But the most thrilling project I've been able to work on was the InatreqTM launch. The launch was a huge team achievement that followed years of R&D, registrations and approvals. To see the active come through after such a long journey and see it launch as an important fungicide that growers can use to maintain and achieve yields has been fantastic.
I feel very proud to be part of the Inatreq journey alongside a big team that put so much work in over a long period of time. And, despite a few headwinds since its launch, I think we still have a valuable and much needed tool for farmers to use. I'm proud of the way Corteva have been able to support growers who continue to use the Inatreq product in their disease programs.
How do you keep up to date with the latest advancements and trends in agriculture?
Mainly through having conversations with Corteva’s subject experts. There is plenty to keep up to date with, such as new product information and regulation changes. For a broader view I turn to these subject experts for information.
What advice would you give to someone entering the agricultural sector?
We need to have more diversity within agriculture, and I'm seeing the tide turning. My advice for women wanting to enter the sector is don't hold back. The agricultural sector offers a vast array of opportunities for everyone. Every team I've been a part of has thrived thanks to the inclusion of women and diverse perspectives. We have great diversity at Corteva and that really comes across in the culture and the way that we work as a business. That diversity doesn't just mean women, for us it means age diversity, ethnic diversity, people from varied backgrounds, and people from all different stages of life and their career.
Why would you recommend Corteva as a great place to work?
You get a lot of opportunities in a company like Corteva. I've had experience in lots of different roles, so I've always felt like I'm learning and progressing in my career, which for me is important. Also, being a woman working in agriculture, I have been really supported by Corteva throughout. Throughout significant life events, such as having children, Corteva has consistently provided the flexibility and support I needed.
If you are looking for a role with a difference, Corteva is the right choice, providing valuable learning experiences. Find out more about our talented team here.
