SASKATOON, Saskatchewan--(BUSINESS WIRE)--A new coaching program for Canadian farmers will empower producers to improve their finances, business risk management policies and, most importantly, create a community of knowledge sharing and collaboration.
Farmer Coach is the first comprehensive and continuous business management program in Canada designed specifically for primary producers.
The program is part of the Hebert Group, which includes Hebert Grain Ventures, a large western Canadian grain operation, and Maverick Ag, an agricultural insurance and financial consulting company.
Led by Hebert Group’s Chief Financial Officer, Evan Shout, and President, Kristjan Hebert, Farmer Coach bridges the gap that exists between farming as a lifestyle and farming as a thriving business.
“Whether it be pride, ego or rugged individualism, too many farmers feel they need to do it on their own, and that’s not the case. We know coaching can help producers with mindset, leadership and financial acumen to ensure their operation is profitable and sustainable,” says Shout.
The war in Ukraine, high commodity prices, rising input costs and severe weather are examples of the volatile nature of agriculture today. Teaching farmers, and professionals who work with agriculture clients, how to better prepare and take advantage of the volatility can make a huge difference.
“Farmers have to be the CEO, CFO and COO and put in a crop. There are many zeros in today’s farming decisions and a lot of downside risk if you’re not adequately prepared. Farmer Coach will help participants with forward planning so they will have good outcomes and a sustainable farm,” says Shout.
The programs are based on boots on the ground proven practices developed by farm managers and entrepreneurs, rather than external consultants. Key topics include removing emotions from business decisions, human resources, working capital and cash flow, machinery utilization, succession planning and land expansion.
“The largest leap for agriculture is between the ears,” says Hebert, a graduate of Texas A&M’s The Executive Program for Agricultural Producers (TEPAP). The program showed Hebert early in his career the importance of farmers investing in professional development.
“As producers, we’re poised to have one of the most profitable years ever, and we know we can help farmers capture these opportunities with some guidance and the right mindset,” says Hebert.
Shawn Colborn, a farmer from Delisle, Saskatchewan has worked with the Hebert Group in the past - and has benefitted from the advice and guidance.
“Evan has never told us what we want to hear, but he’s always told us the truth. He’s always looking out for our best interests, even if it involves difficult conversations,” says Colborn, who is excited about the coaching program now being widely available.
About Farmer Coach:
Farmer Coach is shaping tomorrow’s top producers. As Canada’s first executive program for farmers, Farmer Coach provides business fundamentals through a proven framework while fostering mentorship and support in the collective.
