Strong Source

In this episode, we sit down with Gert-Jan van den Akker, former EVP of Cargill. We dive into his 30+ year career in commodities, from his first role as a trainee to reshaping global freight trading and leading at the top of Cargill. An honest, inside look at strategy, leadership, and navigating volatile markets.

Join Alex Sanfeliu, President of the World Trading Group at Cargill, as he shares insights from over 30 years in agricultural trading. He reveals the traits that define great traders, emphasizing the power of humility over ego. The conversation dives into a high-stakes moment involving 31 Panamax vessels and explores how AI is changing trading strategies. Alex also discusses the evolving role of leadership amidst market crises and the need for adaptive resilience in future traders. It's a masterclass in navigating the complexities of global commodities.

Denis Zaica, Chief Trading Officer at FincoEnergies, shares his inspiring journey from cocoa trading to shaping biofuel strategies. He discusses the complexities of navigating the biofuels market amidst geopolitical tensions and rising fossil fuel prices. Denis emphasizes the importance of adaptability in commodity trading, and how ongoing education is vital for success. He highlights the need for trading to balance instinct with data-driven insights while reflecting on personal growth and networking in this challenging industry.

Martijn Noordhoek, Head of Marketing and Global Supply Chain at Viterra and a veteran of the global sugar trade, shares his journey from a commercial traineeship to mastering sugar trading. He discusses the steep learning curve for newcomers and the complexities of raw vs. white sugar. Martijn reveals how factors like geopolitics and logistics affect trade flows, alongside the health trend of Ozempic impacting sugar demand. He also contrasts the cultural dynamics of different trading firms, emphasizing the importance of company culture and adaptability in this competitive landscape.

In this episode of The Strong Source, we welcome Richard Allen, President of Fonterra Global Ingredients — the world’s largest dairy exporter — for an open conversation about the future of dairy, volatility in commodity markets, and the complexity of global supply chains.From his 18-year journey across continents with Fonterra to the bold decision to divest the company’s consumer division, Richard shares powerful insights on the evolution of the dairy industry, risk management, and what it takes to lead in uncertain times.

Daan Struyven, Co-Head of Commodities Research at Goldman Sachs, shares his wealth of knowledge on the evolving commodities landscape. He discusses the accelerating demand for gold as a safe investment amid rising geopolitical tensions. The conversation dives into the future of oil and renewables, predicting a peak in oil consumption by 2034. Struyven also explores the unpredictable nature of black swan events and their economic effects, offering sage advice for future commodities professionals on the importance of research and adaptability.

Our guest star in this episode is Corinna Olearo, Head of Commodity Research and Price Risk Management at Nestlé. With over 17 years of experience in the commodity sector, she brings a sharp analytical mind and deep market insight to one of the world’s largest food companies. Starting her career as a sugar analyst, she now oversees a broad range of commodities, from cocoa and coffee to dairy and energy. In this episode, she shares her journey, the challenges of managing price risk at scale, and why curiosity, adaptability, and clear communication are essential in the ever-volatile world of commodities.

In this episode of Strong Source – The Commodity Podcast, we sit down with Kendra Rhodes, Director of Global Risk Management, Market Insights, and Communications at General Mills, to explore how FMCG companies navigate extreme market volatility. Kendra shares insights on balancing procurement strategy with risk management, the shift from complex derivatives to simpler hedging approaches, and the critical role of data and agility in decision-making.

In this episode of the Strong Source Podcast, we are excited to welcome Fausto Filice, a seasoned veteran in commodity trading with over three decades at Cargill and Bunge. Fausto has witnessed the transformation of global grain markets, from traditional deal-making to today’s data-driven landscape.Throughout this conversation, Fausto shares insights on the evolution of commodity trading, the role of leadership and teamwork, and why fundamentals remain crucial despite technological advances. He also offers a candid look at managing risk, navigating volatility, and sustaining a successful career in trading.

In this episode of the Strong Source Podcast, we are excited to welcome Rob Gosman, a seasoned commodity trader with over 30 years of experience in energy and oil trading. Having worked at industry giants like Cargill and BP, Rob has navigated some of the most volatile market conditions and played a crucial role in leading successful trading teams. Throughout this conversation, Rob shares his journey from agricultural trading to the energy sector, offering insights into risk management, market dynamics, and the evolution of commodity trading. He also provides a first-hand account of managing trading risk during the 2020 oil crash amid the COVID-19 pandemic and discusses the importance of learning from mistakes, adapting to market changes, and maintaining a trader’s mindset. Whether you’re an aspiring trader, a market enthusiast, or someone looking to understand the complexities of global commodity markets, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and compelling stories from one of the industry’s most experienced professionals.