The road ahead

CEO commentary by Mike McMorris

I’ve reached a milestone in my career: The end of full-time employment. “Retirement” or, better stated, “paying more attention to other priorities” is a time of reflection. Without a doubt, the highlight of my career has been the amazing people that I worked with. At the end of the day, everything is about people, and I was truly blessed to work with some of the best.

Looking back, and thinking ahead, I believe that there is a bright future for the livestock sector in Ontario. How bright will be determined by key players and leaders who: 

•    understand the reality of others (e.g. researchers understanding farmers and vice versa)
•    initiate open and honest discussion of issues facing the sector
•    find ways to collaborate across sectors
•    communicate clearly and concisely
•    and are prepared to be personally vulnerable while speaking up with knowledge and candour about industry issues.

Some years ago, a colleague, who grew up in Brazil, used the phrase “Piranha bull”. This term comes from the real-life case of moving herds of cattle and encountering a river with piranha in it. A dispensable bull would be cut out from the herd and sacrificed to the piranhas while the herd crossed safely. In the business world, it defines someone that is prepared to speak the uncomfortable truth. To be successful, the person must be knowledgeable and respected. We need more piranha bulls in agriculture. 

To the many hundreds of people that I crossed paths with during my career, I extend a sincere thank you. If you are interested to hear a few more of my reflections, please check out the recent edition of the Flock Talk podcast. 

I wish you all the best as you create a brilliant future for Ontario’s livestock sector.