Winnipeg, MB – Today, Keystone Agricultural Producers (KAP) is announcing a change in senior leadership.

“After discussions with our Board of Directors, I am pleased to announce the hiring of Jim Smolik as the interim Executive Director of KAP, effective September 8,” said KAP President, Jill Verwey.

Jim started his career as a third-generation farmer in Dawson Creek, BC. During his time farming he gained experience in leadership and influencer roles through provincial and national producer associations. He left the farm to become a senior decision maker at Canada’s grain regulatory agency and later went on to become the head of government relations and corporate affairs for a multi-national agri-food and ingredients supplier. Currently Jim is a principal with Osborne Interim Management and continues to be involved in all aspects of agriculture through the Ag Advisory Council.

“I am familiar with KAP, having worked on a contract basis with the organization in the past,” said Jim Smolik, Interim Executive Director.  “I am excited to take on this interim role to provide leadership to KAP as they work through a transition process to find a permanent Executive Director to lead them in the years ahead.”

KAP’s outgoing General Manager, Colin Hornby, announced his resignation in August with his work concluding at the end of the month. A search being led by Summit Search Group is currently underway.

“I want to thank Colin for his work with KAP over the past four years, particularly in the General Manager role since January 2025,” said Verwey. “Colin provided us with stable leadership as we have navigated a volatile global trade landscape during his tenure, and I wish him well in his future endeavours.”

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For more information:

Lisha Hassanali
Communications and Stakeholder Relations Manager
Keystone Agricultural Producers
Email: Lisha.Hassanali@kap.ca | Direct: (204) 924-6014