BCPVGA hires general manager

Clayton Botkin has been appointed general manager of the BC Potato and Vegetable Growers Association as part of a revamp on the association’s staff.

Botkin succeeds Jennifer Winning, who was appointed earlier this year and oversaw the transition from long-time executive director Leisa Yee. During the transition process, the decision was made to focus the executive director on developing the association’s connections with producers, while communication, outreach and finance roles were assigned to two new contract staff.

Christine Terpsma will handle communications and outreach while Teuta McQuade will oversee finance.

“I need a good strong team to work for industry, because at the end of the day that’s why we’re doing this,” BCPVGA chair Bill Zylmans says.

With approximately 100 members from all corners of the province, the expanded staffing will allow it to do its job more effectively and prevent it from being dependent on just one person.

“It’s grown, and it’s added other root crop commodities,” Zylmans says. “With that bigger mandate … there’s never been a better time to have an organization that can support [in] the challenges that are coming our way.”

Botkin’s diverse knowledge and experience with business risk management programs promise to be assets to the sector.

A professional agrologist with more than 20 years of experience in agricultural production, management, extension and education, Botkin’s career has spanned regulated markets, corporate and government roles, and industry-led initiatives, including supporting the BC Poultry Health Network’s biosecurity and disease prevention program.

Botkin will lead BCPVGA’s operations, oversee its applied research portfolio and advance the interests of BC potato and field vegetable growers through effective industry leadership and government relations.

“I am incredibly humbled to step into this role, and I look forward to working with BC’s potato and vegetable growers and industry partners to support and advance this important sector,” he says.

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