Value Proposition
Jim has over four decades of experience in the agri-food and agri-business sector. He’s experienced in leadership and influencer roles, from provincial and national producer associations, to a senior decision maker at Canada’s grain regulatory agency, and the head of government relations for a multi-national agri-food and ingredients supplier. Throughout his career Jim has demonstrated his sound governance abilities while building collaborative partnerships with multiple stakeholders. His scope and insight allow Jim to define optimal solutions and support the numerous directional challenges facing industry.
- Provided options and advice to the Federal Minister of Agriculture on changes to the Canada Grain Act for Bill C-39 (2007), Bill C-13 (2009), and Bill C-48 (2014).
- Represented Canadian government at initial meeting and signing of collaboration agreement with the State Administration of Grain for China.
- Completed protocols between Cargill Canada and McDonalds Canada on sustainable beef program.
- Initiated process and protocols for approvals from Canadian Food Inspection Services, Canadian Beef Graders Association and the US Animal and Plant Heath Inspection Service to allow use of the American term “Certified Tender” for Canadian beef, processed and sold in Sobeys and Safeway stores.
- Participated in organizing and developing not-for-profit national grain grower association and lead voice for Canadian grains and oilseeds on pan-agriculture issues as a trade dependent sector.
- Developed not-for-profit BC provincial grower association and lead voice for positive policy changes.
- Queen Elizabeth ll Diamond Jubilee Medal; contributions to fellow citizens, community, and country.
- Osborne Interim Management:
- Western Canadian Wheat Growers Association: Stakeholder Relations (August 2022 – Present)
- Waste to Energy Technology Company: General Manager (2019 – Present)
- Cargill Canada Inc.: Head of Canada Corporate Affairs (2016 – 2019)
- Canadian Grain Commission: Assistant Chief Commissioner and Acting Chief Commissioner (2007 – 2016)
- BC Grain Producers: President (2001 – 2006)
- Grain Growers of Canada: President (2005 – 2006)
- Smolik Bros: Partner; Smolik Farms Ltd.: Co-owner; Agri-Buds Ventures Ltd.: Co-owner; si5 Ventures Ltd.: Owner (1975 – Present)
- Canada Public School Authority Delegation for Heads of Federal Agencies
- Canada Public School for Deputy Ministers and Assistant Deputy Ministers
- Texas A&M Beef Academy Certification
- The Canadian Institution Decision Writing Certification
- Leadership Coaching Certification
- BC Grain Producers Association – 20 years as a Director in various positions including President
- Grain Growers of Canada – Founding Director with eight years in various positions including President
- South Peace Seed Cleaning Co-op – over ten years in executive committee positions
- Dawson Creek Minor hockey Association – five years Coach/Mentor
- Killkarren Rural Community Recreational Society – member
