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After more than 17 years of dedicated service and leadership, Sumitomo Chemical Australia announces the retirement of Brett Ryan from his role as Managing Director.
Brett joined Sumitomo Chemical Australia in 2009 as Marketing Manager, where he was responsible for overseeing the BioRational product portfolios across the Australian and New Zealand agricultural markets. This later expanded to the entire ag portfolio. From the outset, he brought a strong strategic mindset, deep industry expertise, and a commitment to supporting growers through innovative crop protection solutions.
Throughout his tenure, Brett progressed through a series of senior leadership roles, each marked by meaningful contribution and business growth. Following his time as Marketing Manager, he was appointed General Manager of Agrosolutions, where he led the team responsible for Sumitomo Chemical’s diverse agricultural portfolio. In this role, he played a pivotal part in strengthening the company’s focus on biologicals, plant growth regulators, and sustainable agricultural solutions, while also continuing to expand the core crop protection business.
Brett was later appointed Managing Director of Sumitomo Chemical Australia, where he led the strategic direction and operational execution of the business across Australia and New Zealand. Under his leadership, the company strengthened its position in the agricultural sector, underpinned by a focus on innovation, strong customer partnerships, and long-term sustainable growth.
Over his 17 years with the company, Brett became widely respected for his collaborative leadership style, professionalism, and commitment to the industry and the people within it. His ability to build strong, trusted relationships with colleagues, customers, and industry partners has left a lasting impact across the organisation and the broader agricultural community.
Beyond his formal roles and achievements, Brett will be remembered as a supportive mentor, trusted leader, and passionate advocate for agriculture. His contribution to Sumitomo Chemical Australia has been significant, and the foundations he helped establish will continue to support the business into the future.
In stepping down as Sumitomo Chemical Managing Director, Brett will also step down from his position on the CropLife board and as Chairman of AgSafe.
Further information regarding leadership transition arrangements will be shared in due course.
On behalf of everyone at Sumitomo Chemical Australia, we sincerely thank Brett for his exceptional service, commitment, and leadership over the past 17 years. We wish him a long, happy, and well-deserved retirement and every success in the next chapter of his life.