From paddock roots to global farm systems

Rob Clayton says practical, farmer led innovation is what drew him to Gallagher and will shape how he leads its global Animal Management business.

Clayton took up the chief executive role early last month, stepping in as the company pushes to build on strong growth and expand its agritech footprint in key markets. He says NZ’s track record of solving real on-farm problems gives the business a platform to scale proven solutions offshore.

“The NZ farmer has always been innovative and inquisitive, constantly looking for ways to improve,” he says. “Solutions developed and proven here carry a farmer approved stamp when launched to the rest of the world.”

Clayton grew up on a mixed wheat, sheep and cattle property near Coonamble in north west New South Wales and brings to Gallagher 25 years with Nutrien, including senior roles in Australia and the United States. That background, he says, keeps the focus on tools that save time and improve decision making.

“Successful agritech starts with the problems farmers are trying to solve,” Clayton says. “The technology that gets adopted is what makes life easier, improves efficiency and helps farmers make better decisions.”

He says exposure to different production systems has shaped his approach. “Every time I am on farm, whether in China, the Americas, Australia or Europe, I learn something new. “You can take those insights and combine them with Gallagher innovation to create new opportunities for farmers.”

Gallagher Animal Management has lifted growth over the past year while expanding its capability and footprint, including new activity in Brazil and acquisitions in Europe and South Africa. The business has also increased momentum behind its eShepherd platform.

Clayton says connected tools are increasingly part of a wider farm operating system rather than standalone products. “Gallagher’s solutions are part of a broader, interconnected system,” he says. “That level of integration is not common in animal management and it is where we can add real value.”

Group chief executive Kahl Betham says the appointment comes as demand grows for data driven systems that improve labour efficiency and animal performance. He says Clayton’s experience at scale and familiarity with the sector will support further expansion.

Clayton will join the group executive leadership team and lead a global operation of more than 550 staff working with farmers in more than 160 countries. He will be based in Melbourne with regular time in NZ and key markets.