[1] Ian has been manager of the Manjimup Horticultural Research Institute since 2007, overseeing the facility’s technical service delivery teams. The research station hosts several projects designed to boost industry transformation and economic growth, including research on horticultural insect pests, disease resistance in wheat and various other programs focusing on apples, plums, blueberries, cereals, pastures, viticulture and truffles.
Catering for such a diverse range of research projects, requires precise and insightful leadership to ensure the needs of both the projects and the staff involved are met.
Ian also plays an important role in local agricultural emergency management situations as a member of the Department’s regional emergency management first response team, regularly providing support in fire emergency situations.
Ian commenced as a casual in university holidays, which ignited his passion towards a career in the agricultural sector. Commencing as a technical officer, Ian worked on fruit, vegetable, pasture and grains research projects.
As his career progressed, Ian’s experience extended to beef and dairy projects, focusing on pasture utilisation and pasture nutrition.
As a farmer himself, Ian values working with producers to implement research findings into ‘real’ farm environments which either solve problems or lead to a more profitable enterprise.
His management career, whilst still based on strong technical skills, is now more focused on leadership and resource management of a diverse team at the research institute.
Links
[1] https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/sites/gateway/files/styles/gw_large/public/Ian%20Guthridge%20pic.jpg?itok=XXaUl3Yd
[2] https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/ian-guthridge