Q How did you and your company first get involved with DFA?
A Already in 2007, I was among the initiators to establish DFA as a common platform and network for Danish companies within Agriculture and Food Production outside the borders of Denmark.

Q What part of the DFA activities have you participated in, and how has it impacted your career?
A As the CEO of Goodvalley for 27 years, a considerable number of my employees have benefited from the many activities in the association, especially those related to experience groups, education, seminars, and conferences.

Q Can you share a pivotal moment in your professional journey that was influenced by your participation in a DFA activity?
A Not exactly personal, but I know that activities within DFA have shaped the careers of many of our top employees in Goodvalley.

Q What was your main challenge in 2023 within your DFA activity?
A Being the new DFA General Secretary, it has been imperative for me to strengthen and rebuild many of the activities in DFA, especially concerning experience groups and the education of young talents within our membership companies. These activities were impacted by the years with COVID-19 and the war in Ukraine.

Q How do you envision the future of agriculture, and what role do you see DFA playing?
A The vision for DFA is to support and spread knowledge and technological solutions within the green transition of Food and Agriculture production—an area where Danish know-how and technology are frontrunners. Combined with a culture of open and inclusive leadership style, this can lead to a fast and efficient transition into more sustainable food production.

Q Outside of work, what's a passion or hobby that not many people know about?
A Sport, especially triathlon, but also a bit of golf. Additionally, spending as much time as possible with family and friends.

Q If you could recommend a holiday destination to fellow members?
A I prefer to cut the winter in half with a trip to Thailand, where the people are friendly and the climate is perfect for relaxing activities.

Q Is there a book that has greatly influenced your perspective?
A A Danish book - "Hope" by author J. Leth. It describes the present state of the world in a more objective and positive light, serving as a counterpart to the news about disastrous developments. Despite the negative information we hear, the general development of human beings has been mostly positive year after year.

Thank you, Tom, for sharing your insights and experiences with us!