Biobest candidate Herman Van Mellaert elected IBMA President

Date:11-20-2020

Herman Van Mellaert - Director of Strategic Alliances at the Biobest Group - has been elected president of the International Biocontrol Manufacturers Association (IBMA).

Starting his career as an agronomist and with a PhD in insect physiology, Herman has a solid understanding of the technical issues facing the worldwide biocontrol industry. Three years as an EU official gave him first-hand experience of how EU regulations take shape and valuable in-sight into how stakeholders can contribute to the legislative process.

Herman has also held various senior leadership positions within the European life-sciences and biocontrol industry. In his current role - as Director of Strategic Alliances at the Biobest Group – he has built successful alliances with business partners on all continents. 

“The need for a more sustainable agricultural and horticultural industry, operating in harmony with a clean and biodiverse environment, has never been more pressing,” says Herman Van Mellaert. “Policy makers, in formulating ambitious goals - such as the European Green Deal and ‘Farm to Fork’ Strategy - show their trust in the biocontrol industry’s capacity to deliver new solutions."

“I am grateful to be given the opportunity to assist the IBMA in rising up to meet these unique challenges and opportunities. Working with all our members, together with other stakeholders and authorities, the IBMA is well placed to be the catalyst that enables our vibrant industry to deliver its full potential.”

“IBMA is delighted to welcome Herman Van Mellaert to the role as President,” says Jennifer Lewis, IBMA Executive Director. “His broad technical experience and insight into the regulatory process - together with proven business leadership, entrepreneurial and networking skills will be invaluable in helping IBMA deliver the very best for its members, as well as helping to accelerate the transition to sustainable food systems while building back biodiversity with a neutral or positive environmental impact.”