“Leadership in Action” was the focus of AgriNovus Indiana’s recent Quadrant event. They hosted a panel discussion with several leaders from ag businesses and academia as they offered their leadership advice.
“Surround yourself with the best people that is absolutely number one,” said Kevin Still, President and CEO of Keystone Cooperative. He has served as a CEO for 41 years and was been recognized by the Purdue Ag Alumni Association with the Certificate of Distinction in 2022.
Still was a member of the panel discussion and shared with Hoosier Ag Today his keys to being a strong ag business leader.
“Don’t be afraid to take chances. Know your businesses. Pay attention to the details. I think one that served me really well is I’m relentlessly persistent and I’m always looking for the next thing,” he said.
During that panel discussion, he talked about the motto that’s driven him as a CEO: “If you’re not growing, you’re dying.”
“Customers are continuing to grow, so we have to stay on their radar,” said Still. “We also stay on our vendors’ radar so we can take advantage of the best prices, terms, and products. Then, we want the kind of employees that want to work for a growth company.”
Still also shared the leadership advice he’s given to students, as well as those who are just starting their careers.
“Don’t be afraid to take chances. Don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo, but still make sure you keep your head down. Do your job extremely well, but ask questions and be innovative,” he said.
CLICK BELOW to watch Hoosier Ag Today’s full interview with Kevin Still from AgriNovus Indiana’s recent Quadrant event.
