Nufarm is pleased to announce the appointment of Sami Jauhiainen as General Manager, Renewable Oils, Seed Technologies and a member of Nufarm’s Executive Leadership Team, effective 1 September 2026. Sami will report directly to our CEO and relocate from Finland to the United Kingdom.

In this role, Sami will lead Nufarm’s Renewable Oils platform beyond the farm gate, covering bioenergy, nutritionals and the grain-to-oil supply chain.

Seed Technologies brings together two customer platforms: Seeds and Renewable Oils. Each platform is led by an executive accountable for growth and performance. Together, these leaders form the Seed Technologies Leadership Team, leveraging our shared strengths in science, genetics, technology and grower partnerships to create long-term value for growers, downstream customers and shareholders.

Sami joins Nufarm from Neste, where he has held a number of senior leadership positions across strategy, commercial operations and business development. Most recently, he has been leading strategic projects within the COO Office, supporting executive leadership on strategy and M&A initiatives. Prior to this, Sami led global trading and supply activities for Neste’s Oil Products business and held executive leadership roles across the Renewable Aviation business, including serving as Acting Executive Vice President for Neste’s global Renewable Aviation division.

With more than 20 years of international business experience, Sami brings a strong combination of strategic thinking, commercial leadership and growth-oriented execution. Throughout his career he has helped build and scale new businesses, establish strategic partnerships, lead organisational transformation and develop high-performing teams in complex global environments. His experience spans Europe, Asia Pacific and global markets, where he has worked closely with customers, industry partners, regulators and investors to deliver sustainable growth. Sami's experience in commercialising innovative technologies, creating new market opportunities and building scalable growth platforms aligns strongly with Nufarm’s strategy for Renewable Oils. He brings a collaborative leadership style, strong strategic capability and significant experience leading businesses operating at the intersection of innovation, sustainability and commercial performance.

Outside of work, Sami keeps busy with his family and three school-age children. He enjoys spending time outdoors running or on hiking and camping trips, and he enjoys travelling and exploring new cuisines. In quieter moments, he spends time reading widely on history, economics, and current affairs.

Throughout the recruitment process, Sami demonstrated a strong alignment with Nufarm's values and a genuine enthusiasm for the opportunities ahead. His international experience, commercial acumen and track record of building new businesses were evident, but what stood out most was his thoughtful leadership style and commitment to developing people and teams. We are excited to welcome Sami to Nufarm and look forward to working closely with him as we continue to grow and realise the potential of our Renewable Oils business.

Our CEO, Rico Christensen wishes to convey his heartfelt thanks to James Barkhouse who has been leading this important part of the Seed Technologies business since January this year whilst we conducted the search. During this period, James has provided strong leadership and continuity, maintaining momentum across our strategic priorities. His commitment to the team, customers and broader business has been instrumental, and I am grateful for his contribution and stewardship.