Jim Smolik
Jim’s career started as a third-generation grains and oilseeds producer in the Peace River District of British Columbia. During his 30 years of farming he participated at the early stages developing the BC Grain Producer Association (BCGPA). Being a provincial lobby organization, the association also had a research division that ran annual variety trials in the North and South Peace and the Parkland region. While President of the BCGPA, Jim became a Founding Director of the Grain Growers of Canada, a national voice that represents provincial grains and oilseeds associations in Ottawa. He held various roles with them, including President.
After his farming career, Jim was appointed as the Assistant Chief Commissioner to the Canadian Grain Commission (CGC). In his final year, he held the role of Chief Commissioner. Following his time at the CGC, Jim moved to Cargill Canada Inc. and held the position of Head of Canada, Corporate Affairs Cargill Limited, responsible for eleven different business units in Canada.
After leaving Cargill, Jim transitioned into consulting roles for the ag industry as well as the waste-to-energy sector.