Product Specialist Edwin Geling joined Solynta directly after graduating in Plant Sciences from Wageningen University.
“I grew up on an arable farm in Flevoland, where we also grow potatoes. This is my very first job! After graduation, I wanted a role that would combine desk work with outdoor activities. Luckily, I saw the position of Product Specialist on social media and was immediately interested. I’d already heard of Solynta during my studies and was curious about the possibilities of hybrid true potato seeds. I thought it would be fascinating to work on this, as I believe that the current way of cultivating potatoes is not sustainable for the future, given climate change, stricter pesticide regulations, and the need for sustainable agriculture. I was especially curious about how hybrid potatoes could be cultivated and how they will positively contribute to the challenges faced by growers. It seemed to me like an innovative and educational way of growing potatoes, where I could hopefully contribute to its success story.
As a Product Specialist, I am busy mapping out the cultivation methods that are best suited in the markets in which we are currently commercially active, and introducing it to growers. Growing potatoes from true seeds is new, innovative and sometimes requires different agronomic activities, compared to conventional potato cultivation. I am the link between our sales people, our local partners and local potato growers. This approach gives me a clear perspective and valuable information on what customers need to successfully grow potatoes based on true potato seeds. I’m very excited about the success stories that are yet to come."
About Our Culture
I’ve really enjoyed my first year at Solynta and I have learned an incredible amount. I’ve heard so many interesting insights about genetics and agronomy, and I’m starting to know a fair amount about hybrid potatoes. My colleagues are great; they gave me a lot of confidence right from the start. I’ve been entrusted with my own responsibilities, and I feel valued. Solynta has an informal culture. You can just walk into any office, and everyone is happy to help, and make time for you.
Taking Initiative is Encouraged
At the same time, taking initiative is highly valued, which fits well with Solynta’s culture. I really appreciate that, from day one, I wasn’t treated like a beginner, but I was taken seriously. In my role, I work closely with the Commercial Team and also with the Agronomy team. The atmosphere in both teams is relaxed, and there’s always time for fun. Another thing I really enjoy is our internal company-wide meetings held every two weeks. Experiences are shared, and we enjoy drinks together afterward, which is both enjoyable and informative. This helps us stay connected to the other parts of Solynta.
Growing potatoes from true seed remains fascinating
The concept of growing potatoes from tiny botanical true potato seeds remains fascinating. It is nice to be part of the start of this 'potato revolution'. Ultimately, I’d love to see the area dedicated to hybrid potatoes worldwide grow significantly, and I’m excited to contribute to that. In the near future, I’m focused on learning how we can best support our customers and growers in achieving successful potato cultivation from seeds. The grower's success and agronomics depends on many factors, like local agronomic practices, economic factors, climate and soil quality, variety characteristics and market requirements, but also on knowledge transfer from us to the field, and vice versa. Finding out the best agronomic model to fit local market requirements is the ultimate reward for me. This is where my work is directly contributing to grower's success, and also contribution to the growth and success of Solynta. Friends and family are genuinely surprised when I talk about growing potatoes from true seed. I always say that we still have a lot to learn, but we’re making great strides.
Grow your own contest
At Solynta, we have our own internal competition. It revolves around the question which staff member can most successfully grow potatoes at home from just 5 potato seeds. I’m definitely hoping to win next year’s trophy—a golden potato masher! In any case, I think it is a fun and interesting challenge, as I enjoy coming up with solutions for the issues I encounter in the field during cultivation. Sharing my findings with my father is rewarding, and who knows—maybe in five years, we’ll be growing hybrid potatoes at home too!"