Paul D. Olson

Cultivates a better future. Linking leader. Systems thinker. Develops ideas, high-performing teams, products & policies.

Germany

About

Global agricultural experience in the Americas, Asia, and Europe with a keen interest in seed system developments in Africa.

Experience

  • Global Head Applied Research at East-West Seed
    Mar 2025 - Present · 1 yr 5 mos

  • Cereals Germplasm Development Head EAME at Syngenta Group
    Oct 2021 - Mar 2025 · 3 yrs 6 mos

  • Lead of Plant Variety Protection (PVP) and Germplasm at KWS Group
    Jul 2015 - Sep 2021 · 6 yrs 3 mos

  • DuPont Pioneer (15 yrs 3 mos)
    • Senior Manager, Business and Trait Strategy Development
      Sep 2010 - Jun 2015 · 4 yrs 10 mos

      Manage development of diverse market- and technology-driven concepts that complement seed biotech and strengthen DuPont Ag and Nutrition's competitive position in agriculture.

    • Trait Characterization Senior Research Manager
      Jun 2008 - Aug 2010 · 2 yrs 3 mos

      Led early generation characterization and development for multiple insect, herbicide, and output trait projects and stacks in maize; involved distance management of four, geographically-dispersed teams.

    • Seed Nursery Manager and Product Development Scientist
      Jun 2005 - Jun 2008 · 3 yrs 1 mo

      Managed growth, improved productivity, and improved safety of continuous research seed production operations in both field and greenhouse-like structures. Developed a team of 30+ full-time employees supplemented with a 200+ part-time workforce.