William Smith

Highly accomplished Agronomic Researcher with over 25 years of experience in leading field trials, implementing national and regional protocols, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Proven ability to manage complex research projects, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and supervise staff to drive innovation in crop protection and seed technologies. Adept at optimizing operational efficiency and maintaining data integrity to support strategic objectives in agricultural research and development.

Committed to advancing agricultural science and delivering impactful solutions.

Agronomic Research Manager at Bayer Crop Science (2018-01 – 2026-01)

• Spearheaded the implementation of national and regional protocols for Asgrow, DeKalb, and Deltapine brands, ensuring consistent trial execution and data integrity across the Mid-South region.
• Executed regional testing of current and future crop protection products, including Vyconic, Convintro, and experimental seed treatments, across soybeans, corn, and cotton.
• Facilitated training and data transfer by collaborating with Agronomic Research Managers, Technology Development Representatives, Technical Agronomists, and Field Sales Representatives.
• Served as the Site Responsible Researcher for regulated trials, guaranteeing USDA/EPA compliance and upholding Bayer's Freedom to Operate.

Field Agronomic Research Manager at Monsanto Company (2010-01 – 2018-01)

• Directed strategic testing platforms and coordinated planning within the Coastal Research Unit and Local Testing Team.
• Managed field trials across West Tennessee, Missouri Bootheel, and Northeast Arkansas, evaluating germplasm and seed traits.
• Functioned as the field compliance expert and committee member, leading regional compliance training and academic outreach initiatives.
• Streamlined regulated material handling processes and managed DOT requirements, including trailer training.
• Oversaw regional equipment logistics, maintenance, and capital planning.
• Supervised a Technical Field Assistant and seasonal interns, and supported budget forecasting and management.

PGRM Lead and Seed Processing Manager at Monsanto Company (2009-01 – 2010-01)

• Managed 24,000 sq. ft. greenhouse operations, encompassing R2 seed production and introgression.
• Conducted SQT and GAMMA screening, and oversaw seed processing from planting through archiving.
• Initiated and led cross-site system improvement projects with Chesterfield and Jerseyville.
• Operated the Delinting Acid System (DAS) for greenhouse and field seed materials.
• Supervised a team of 3-5 full-time employees and coordinated biotech cotton seed shipping.

Trait Development Agronomist at Monsanto Company (2007-01 – 2009-01)

• Directed trials in collaboration with the Biotech and Seed Treatment divisions, focusing on Water Use Efficiency, Bollgard III, Dicamba, and fungicide technologies.
• Ensured USDA compliance across both internal and external trial sites.
• Managed all aspects of planting, maintenance, data collection, and harvest operations.
• Led the Monsanto Intern Program, providing mentorship and managing protocol assignments.
• Supervised a team of 3-5 full-time employees and seasonal workers.
• Contributed to the safety steering committee to promote safe field practices.

Product Development Agronomist at Delta & Pine Land Company (2001-01 – 2007-01)

• Led small plot and USDA regulated trials encompassing agronomy, pathology, entomology, and herbicide tolerance.
• Managed trial logistics, data collection, and seed shipment for both domestic and international utilization.
• Supervised full-time staff, seasonal employees, and university interns.
• Operated the research gin and managed HVI (High Volume Instrument) testing.

Product Development Technician at Delta & Pine Land Company (1997-01 – 2000-01)

• Supported planting, data collection, and harvest activities for small plot trials.
• Collaborated effectively with weed scientists, entomologists, and agronomists on research projects.

Intern at Delta & Pine Land Company (1997-05 – 1997-08)

• Performed data collection, weed control, and insect monitoring tasks.

Survey in Cotton Ginning Systems and Technology Management – Mississippi State University (2000-06 – 2000-07)

BS in Biology – Delta State University (1992-08 – 1997-05)