Valent Hires New Technology VP
Valent U.S.A Corp. has named Dr. Eric Johnson the company’s new vice president of technology. Johnson has led a wide range of business and technology initiatives during a three-decade career in global agriculture, and he will oversee all research and development functions, as well as all regulatory activities, for Valent. Johnson joins Valent after 29 years with Monsanto Company, where he was recognized as an expert in the development and launch of innovative technologies in crop protection and biotechnology traits. His contributions to the global agriculture industry include the launch of novel herbicides, the introduction of Roundup Ready soybeans in the United States and abroad, the development of new technologies for corn and vegetables and the creation of tropical research programs in Brazil. “I am very passionate about delivering more effective and efficient solutions to customers, and this passion has driven me to dedicate my career to the development of new technology in agriculture,” Johnson says. “Valent is known for its commitment to product development, and I look forward to building on the company’s continued growth and success in this area.” Johnson earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from The College of William and Mary, a master’s degree in weed science and a doctorate in plant pathology from North Carolina State University and an MBA from Washington University in St. Louis. Johnson will be based at the company’s headquarters in Walnut Creek, Calif. For more information about the company, visit www.valent.com.