Johnson joins Valent as VP Technology

WALNUT CREEK, CALIF.—Valent U.S.A. Corp. has named Dr. Eric Johnson as its new vice president of technology.

Johnson, who has led a wide range of business and technology initiatives during a three-decade career in global agriculture, will oversee all research and development functions, as well as all regulatory activities, for Valent.

Johnson joins Valent after 29 years with Monsanto Co., where he was recognized as an expert in the development and launch of innovative technologies in crop protection and biotechnology traits. His contributions to the global agriculture industry include the launch of novel herbicides, the introduction of Roundup Ready soybeans in the United States and abroad, the development of new technologies for corn and vegetables and the creation of tropical research programs in Brazil.

“Eric has a well-deserved reputation as an industry leader and innovator, and he has built an impressive track record of success in technology and business development,” says Andy Lee, Valent executive vice president and chief operating officer. “His spirit of innovation is well aligned with our ongoing commitment to develop new conventional and biorational solutions that meet the needs of the industry.”

Johnson’s decision to join Valent was based in part on the company’s focus on innovation, its diverse portfolio of products — including a rapidly expanding line of biorational offerings — and the opportunity to lead new active ingredients through the entirety of the market development process.

“I am very passionate about delivering more effective and efficient solutions to customers, and this passion has driven me to dedicate my career to the development of new technology in agriculture,” Johnson says. “Valent is known for its commitment to product development, and I look forward to building on the company’s continued growth and success in this area.”

Johnson earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from The College of William and Mary, a master’s degree in weed science and a doctorate in plant pathology from North Carolina State University and an MBA from Washington University in St. Louis.

Johnson will be based in the company’s headquarters in Walnut Creek, Calif.