Minister Ritz Welcomes the Hiring of JoAnne Buth as CEO of Cigi

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Jun 4, 2014) - Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

Today, Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz welcomed the hiring of JoAnne Buth by the Canadian International Grains Institute (Cigi) as Chief Executive Officer, effective August 11, 2014. Minister Ritz also took the opportunity to thank current CEO Earl Geddes for his remarkable contribution to the agricultural sector following the announcement of his retirement.

Quick Facts

• The Canadian grain industry leads the way in Canadian agriculture and food exports - wheat, canola seed, canola oil, soybeans and pulses, represent a total of $23 billion in exports -nearly half of Canada's record agricultural exports in 2013.

• With world demand for grains projected at a billion tonnes a year by 2050, the future is bright for Canada's grain industry.

• Building on over 40 years of achievement, Cigi's expertise in applied grain research, marketing and training is recognized world-wide.

Quotes

"Having spent most of her professional life in agriculture, Ms. Buth is well-known to the industry as an advocate for agricultural success in her native Manitoba, across Canada and around the world. She brings with her an extensive knowledge of the sector and a deep passion for its continued prosperity. I look forward to working with Ms. Buth in our mutual goal of continuing to enhance Canada's reputation as a viable and key player in today's increasingly competitive grains marketplace.

"Since 2009, Mr. Geddes' leadership has been instrumental in positioning the organization to help farmers and industry grow opportunities for Canadian field crops. On behalf of the sector, I wish to thank Earl for his significant contributions, and wish him all the best in his upcoming retirement."

- Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz