By Janet Kanters

MustGrow Biologics Corp. has appointed agricultural industry executive Kevin Helash as chief executive officer, as the Saskatoon-based company looks to accelerate commercialization of its biological crop inputs.

Helash brings international leadership experience, having previously served as CEO of Biotalys, Marrone Bio Innovations and Agrinos. He also held senior executive positions at Agrium Inc. (now Nutrien), where he helped build and lead Canada’s largest agricultural retail organization and held leadership responsibilities in its global wholesale fertilizer business.

At Marrone Bio Innovations, Helash led a business transformation that culminated in the company’s US$235-million merger with Bioceres Crop Solutions in 2022.

“Kevin’s appointment comes at an important stage in MustGrow’s development,” said Brad Munro, chairman of MustGrow. He said Helash’s experience commercializing agricultural technologies, developing strategic partnerships and leading business transformations would help the company build on its progress and advance its commercial priorities.

Helash said he sees MustGrow at a pivotal stage in its development and is impressed with the company’s technology platform, early commercial progress and industry partnerships.

“I am excited to join the team and contribute to the next stage of MustGrow’s development, accelerating commercialization and creating meaningful long-term value for shareholders,” he said.

He specifically highlighted the company’s TerraSante biofertility product and its strategic relationship with Bayer as important developments.

The leadership appointment also includes changes to two other senior positions. Former CEO Corey Giasson will become chief operating officer, focusing on internal operations, production and support for the company’s development and commercialization activities.

Colin Bletsky will transition to chief commercial officer, continuing to lead product sales and global market development.

MustGrow’s technology is based on natural defence compounds found in mustard seed, which the company formulates into biofertility, biostimulant and biocontrol products. Its solutions are designed to support soil and plant health while providing alternatives for more sustainable crop production.

The company’s flagship product, TerraSante, is registered, organically certified and commercially available in several U.S. agricultural states, including California. Internationally, MustGrow is working with Bayer to pursue commercialization opportunities in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

MustGrow’s intellectual property portfolio includes approximately 110 issued and pending patents.