Buth is well known in the domestic and international grain industry, having spent most of her professional life in agriculture. She was with the Canola Council of Canada, serving as vice-president from 1999 to 2007 and president from 2007 to 2012. Under her leadership the Canola Council addressed many international trade issues, made significant contributions to canola research, and moved the industry forward by implementing a vision and strategic plan entitled, “Growing Great 2015.” Buth has also served on many agriculture advisory committees in both private industry and government. She was appointed to the Canadian Senate in January 2012 where her extensive knowledge of agriculture was a strong attribute.

Murdoch MacKay, chairman of Cigi’s board of directors, said Buth brings the right combination of industry experience and vision to lead Cigi in its continuing growth and evolution. “Cigi is a key contributor to the success of the Canadian agriculture industry as a whole. JoAnne’s extensive expertise and perspective will ensure that Cigi remains an internationally respected institute that works on behalf of farmers and industry in the promotion of Canada’s field crops.”

Buth says joining Cigi enables her to return to her roots. “This opportunity represents coming home to me as I come back to work in an industry that is so critical to Canada and to Canada’s reputation internationally. Cigi is a gem in the agriculture industry, and I am very excited to be leading an organization that is in a growth phase.”