Jim Smolik

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.

Selected Achievements

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.

Experience

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)

Qualifications

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

Volunteerism

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

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Articles Written By and Featuring Jim

Our Wishes for 2023

Traditions are synonymous with the holidays, so in keeping with ours, some of Osborne's Principals and Senior Advisors reflect on the outgoing year and what their hopes are for the incoming one. Whether your traditions are baking treats, decorating parties, or donning an ugly sweater, we hope it includes spending quality time with the ones [...]

News Release: Osborne Welcomes Jim Smolik, a Leader in the Agri-Business Industry, to the Team

Osborne Interim Management is pleased to welcome Jim Smolik to the team as a Principal. 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 [...]