Nurturing growth in the U.S.
My love for agriculture started early, growing up amid California’s vibrant farming landscape—sprawling rows of broccoli, cauliflower, and vineyards stretching to the horizon. That world shaped me. At Cal Poly University, a leader in agricultural disciplines, I initially pursued agricultural communication with dreams of teaching. But I soon realized my true place was in the field, not the classroom.
Climbing the Netafim Ladder
Nine years ago, I joined Netafim as a sales rep, managing one of the largest U.S. territories. Over time, I moved up to Regional Sales Manager, National Sales Manager for Agriculture, and now Senior Sales Director for North America, overseeing sales across agriculture, landscape, and wastewater. It’s a first for a woman at Netafim USA and I’m proud of what it might mean for others coming up in this industry.
What pulled me to Netafim, even before I joined, was its focus on innovation and sustainability—values I’ve carried through the last 20 years in agriculture. From software roles to scaling markets here, I’ve worked to advance smarter irrigation practices that help farmers succeed.
Balancing leadership with family life is no small feat. With two young daughters and a demanding travel schedule, I lean heavily on my husband—a strong, hands-on partner who’s stepped up as their rock at home. His support isn’t just a convenience; it’s the backbone that lets me chase this career without missing a beat. He’s proud of holding it all together, and I’m grateful every day for it.
My Recipe for Leadership Success
Being a woman in agriculture can feel like you’re always proving yourself, but it’s also an advantage. My leadership hinges on listening—really hearing what customers need—and staying honest. I rely on question-based selling, a method that taps into strengths like empathy and communication. In an industry where confidence can sometimes overshadow humility, this openness has given me an advantage, quickly earning trust.
The path had its challenges—too young, too female, too different. But mentors who believed in me, along with persistence and speaking up, turned doubts into respect. The right mentors will shape your path in ways you never expect.
From California’s fields to leading North American sales at Netafim, my journey shows women can thrive here. This International Women’s Day, I hope it’s clear: breaking ground isn’t about the top—it’s about making room for others.
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