Feb 3, 2025Crop nutrition company names new CEO
Crop nutrition and wastewater treatment provider Ostara has named Tom Snipes, an industry technology veteran, as its new CEO.
Snipes most recently served as CEO of Custom Agronomics and also served as CEO of Plant Response Inc., a global plant biotechnology company specializing in nutrient use efficiency, plant innate immunity and plant physiology, according to a news release. Plant Response, acquired by The Mosaic Co. in 2022, is now part of Mosaic Biosciences.
“The emphasis on sustainability, improving nutrient efficiency and enhancing both plant and soil health has presented strong market opportunities for Ostara,” Snipes said in the release. “The company has already built an incredible base of technologies, manufacturing capabilities and customer relationships complimented by proven agronomic results globally. I’m excited about capitalizing on opportunities to drive the business to the next stage of growth.”
Snipes previously worked in leadership roles at Pinnacle Agricultural Holdings and Koch Industries. He is a University of South Carolina graduate and has completed executive education programs at the University of Michigan and Texas A&M University.
“Tom brings a valuable combination of agricultural experience and business expertise to Ostara,” Monty Bayer, Ostara executive board chair, said in the release. “He has a track record of innovation and growth that will enable us to continue expanding our presence and product line.”
Ostara’s Crystal Green technology platform features phosphate fertilizers which release nutrients in response to crop demand, helping to maximize yield, enhance soil health and reduce phosphate tie-up, runoff and leaching, according to the company.
