Intrepid Mining LLC has hired Patrick “Pat” Avery as chief operating officer, effective April 9. He will be responsible for the oversight of all Intrepid Mining’s operations in New Mexico and Utah. He will also be directly involved in all aspects of the company’s worldwide strategic planning and business development.
Avery has held multiple senior executive positions with JR Simplot Co., and most recently was their senior vice president and general manager of retail businesses. He holds a BA in Biology and Chemistry from the University of Colorado, Boulder, an MS in Civil Engineering from Loyola University, and an MBA from Pepperdine University.
Dr. Thomas Jensen is joining the staff of the International Plant Nutrition Institute (IPNI) as Northern Great Plains regional director, effective May 1. He will be based in IPNI’s Saskatoon, Sask., office with responsibility for agronomic programs in Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan, plus Montana and North Dakota. Dr. Jensen has held agronomic positions with Agricore United, Agrium Inc., and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. His PhD is from the University of Alberta.
Dr. Adrian Johnston, who has served as director of the Northern Great Plains region for the past several years, was recently promoted to Asia Group, vice president, with responsibility for IPNI programs in China, India, and Southeast Asia. He is also based in Saskatoon.
H.J. Baker & Bro. Inc. recently announced that Richard “Ric” Valagene will serve as director of operations, a newly created position at the family-held company. Valagene will guide the manufacturing operations of the company’s Feed, Sulphur, and Tiger-Sul business units, and will be accountable for operational efficiency, product quality, and capital project management. He will also be responsible for meeting government regulations, including safety, health, and environmental compliance. Valagene will report directly to Christopher Smith, CEO. Valagene’s previous work experienced includes senior management positions with the two largest pet food industry leaders, Alpo and Ralston Purina, and as the former director of operations of NuPetra LLC. H.J. Baker & Bro. Inc., headquartered in Westport, Conn., serves as the holding company for: H.J. Baker Fertilizer Group, H.J. Baker Sulphur Group, and H.J. Baker Feed Products Group.