Shawn Boyle wins Spudman’s Emerging Leader Award
Shawn Boyle is relatively new to the potato industry, but you would never know that based on his passion and dedication. Boyle has helped implement processes and events that have made the Idaho Grower Shippers Association (IGSA) more efficient for its members.
Boyle was selected as president and CEO of IGSA in January 2017. He worked five years as a licensed attorney with Brad Hall & Associates, serving petroleum, transportation and farming organizations. Through this experience, he has developed a strong understanding of the challenges affecting Idaho businesses operating in a national and global economy. He holds a juris doctorate degree from the University of Idaho and bachelor of science in business management from Brigham Young University-Idaho.
Although he may be a newcomer to the potato industry, it is not entirely foreign to Boyle. He grew up in the potato community of Shelley, Idaho.
“He is aware of the importance of how the community depends on the success of the famous Idaho Potato,” wrote Calvin Butler of GPOD of Idaho when he nominated Boyle for the Emerging Leader Award.
From the beginning, Boyle dug in, took control and learned his new position, as well as how the potato industry functions, Butler said. “He wants to see the members of the IGSA prosper and flourish and feels it is up to him and the board of directors to help them accomplish this by giving them some of the needed information to do so. He takes his job seriously and allows others to voice their opinion and concerns.”
Boyle is described by those who nominated him as a natural leader with strong organization and communication skills that drive his ability to get things done. Less than two years into his role as president of IGSA, he has been able to turn a “stagnant association into a powerhouse that now has a seat at the political and negotiations table,” said Klade Williams of Moss Farms/Arrowhead Potato Company.
“Shawn has been an outstanding leader and continues to align and influence those he is leading,” said Marc Christensen of Mart Produce. “Shawn is humble, engaging and a good listener.”
Boyle has aided the IGSA annual meeting registration process by making it easier with online registration and payment. He helps update the association website, organizes seminars on trending topics like food safety and transportation, and puts together informational pieces for members. Boyle often travels to various trade shows and meetings representing IGSA and informing the larger produce industry about Idaho trends and needs.
Boyle is devoted to those around him, balancing family, career, civic and church responsibilities. In addition to his professional pursuits, Boyle enjoys coaching youth sports teams, participating in triathlons, and teaching his three kids the secrets of gardening.
The Spudman Emerging Leader Award, sponsored by YARA, will be presented to Boyle during the National Potato Council Awards Banquet on Friday, Jan. 11.
— Ana Olvera, digital content director
