Vineland Research and Innovation Centre announces new CEO

Vineland Research and Innovation Centre (Vineland) announced that its Board of  Directors has appointed Dr. Ian Potter as Chief Executive Officer effective April 1, 2019. Mr. Potter will also join the Vineland Board of Directors at that time.

 

“Having served in senior leadership roles with both the National Research Council  Canada (NRC) and Alberta Innovates – Technology Futures (AITF) throughout his 25- year career, Ian has substantial experience in the Canadian research and innovation space,” said Dr. Warren Jestin, Vineland’s Board Chair. “He is a well-rounded executive who brings significant operating expertise and commercialization know-how to  Vineland. His team-focused approach aligns well with the extensive skill base and expertise already within the Vineland team and will support continued growth and  impact for the horticulture sector.” 

 

“I am excited to be joining Vineland as CEO and look forward to relocating to the  Niagara region and working alongside key stakeholders to expedite opportunities for  further collaboration and success within the Canadian horticultural space,” said Dr.  Potter.

 

Vineland’s Board also thanks Shelley Martin, Board Director and retired Nestlé Canada executive, for providing leadership as interim CEO following the November 2018 resignation of Dr. Jim Brandle. 

 

Video: Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

On the Brink, Justin Funk, a third-generation agri-marketer, shares the findings of a national survey conducted in early 2026. The numbers reframe the conversation: independent seed companies in Canada represent upwards of $1.7 billion in dedicated seed infrastructure, approximately 3,000 full-time equivalent jobs in rural communities, and an estimated $20 million in annual community contributions. And roughly 90% of Canada's cereals, pulses, and other small pollinated crops flow through them.

The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.