Careers in Sustainable Food and Agriculture: Innovation, Leadership, and Climate Solutions

Join us on October 2nd to hear from alumni, industry leaders, founders, and CEOs who are shaping the future of food and agriculture in the face of the climate crisis.

Snacks and coffee will be served during the event, and the program will conclude with a networking session with the speakers—an opportunity to continue the conversation and build new connections.

Co-Sponsored by:

• Harvard Global Food Systems Program
• Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences Mignone Center for Career Success
• Office of Career and Professional Development Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
• Harvard Business School Career & Professional Development
• Harvard Kennedy School Office of Career Advancement

Agenda

12:30 – 1:30 PM | Panel 1: Sustainability and the Global Food System  —  R-304

This session will explore how leaders across government, industry, and global food companies are advancing sustainability in the food system while addressing the challenges of climate change, supply chain resilience, and consumer demand.

Moderator: Chris Johnson, HBS Fellow & Former EVP, Nestlé SA

Panelists:

• Christina O'Keefe, Global Head of Sustainable Sourcing, Kerry
• Pete Vegas, Owner, Sage V Foods
• Frederic D'Alsace, Professor of Marketing & Strategy, IMD
• Josh Katz, Managing Director, Earth Nature

12:30 – 1:30 PM | Panel 2: Agriculture, Technology, and Climate  —  R-306

This panel will examine how technological innovation and cross-sector leadership are transforming agriculture in the face of climate change. From advancing digital tools and AI-driven solutions to strengthening global partnerships and industry practices, speakers will discuss how emerging technologies and entrepreneurial approaches are shaping a more resilient and sustainable agricultural future.

Moderator: David Ghalili, MBA Candidate, Harvard Business School

Panelists:

• John Power, President, LSC International Inc
• Kalpana Beesabathuni, Founder, Hornbill AG
• Arthur Lane, VP Precision Technologies, John Deere Intelligence Solutions
• Jillian Wishman, Senior Manager, Strategic Marketing, Bay State Milling

1:30 – 2:00 PM | Transition & Coffee Break  —  R-304 & R-306

2:00 – 3:00 PM | Panel 3: Climate Change and Adaptation in Small-Scale Agriculture  —  R-304

This session will highlight the critical role of small-scale agriculture in global food security and explore how farmers, researchers, and industry leaders are adapting to a changing climate. Panelists will discuss strategies for building resilience, from policy and finance to technological innovation and community-based solutions, offering diverse perspectives on supporting farmers and food systems in the face of climate challenges.

Moderator: Adarsh Kumar, MPP Candidate, Harvard Kennedy School

Panelists:

• Alicia Harley, Senior Research Fellow, Sustainability Science Program, Harvard Kennedy School
• Yoav Levsky, CEO, Nibbana Group
• Diane Charleton, Associate Professor, Montana State University
• Torsten Hemme, T.H. Foundation

2:00 – 3:00 PM | Panel 4: Food Security & Nutrition  —  R-306

This session will explore how leaders are utilizing new technologies and processes to ensure greater food security and better nutrition for all, while encouraging sustainability throughout the supply chain.

Moderator: Adrienne Fung, Sophomore, Harvard College

Panelists:

• Denis McDonough, CEO, Feeding America
• Julie Gehrki, President, Walmart Foundation
• Judith Batchelar OBE, Director, Food Matters