Strong Source

We're excited to feature Willem Zimmerman, VP of Global Cocoa Trading and Sourcing at Barry Callebaut Group, on this episode of the Strong Source Podcast. With extensive experience at Cargill and Barry Callebaut, Willem offers deep insights into the cocoa industry's challenges and guidance for its future.

In this episode, we are joined by Jan Dieleman, an industry leader and a great example for aspiring commodity traders. Jan is the President of Cargill Ocean Transportation, based in Geneva, and has managed roles in the U.S. and Europe during his more than 20 years with Cargill. Across the maritime sector, Jan is a respected advocate for sustainable shipping, actively supporting reduced emissions,...

In this episode, we're thrilled to welcome Stephane Bernhard to the podcast! With an impressive resume spanning over years of experience in commodities trading. Stephane began his illustrious career as a trader at Louis Dreyfus Company, where he spent 13 years mastering the intricacies of the industry. His leadership journey continued as he ascended to the role of Managing Director for Spain and P...

On this episode we sit down with Ben Tacken. Ben kicked off his career at Cargill, where he honed his skills over a decade before venturing into trading various commodities at Vattenfall. For the past 10 years, he has served as the Corporate Director of Purchase and Trading at DE Heus Animal Nutrition, showcasing his expertise in strategic procurement and trading operations. Don't miss out on this...

On this episode we sit down with Boudewijn van Vliet. Boudewijn's has a fascinating journey in the world of commodities, starting from his early days at Cargill in Amsterdam and Geneva. After six years, he made a significant move to Citi, where he became Head of Freight Trading. Today, Boudewijn serves as a board member and non-executive director of two companies in Geneva, while also leading the...

In our fourth episode we are joined by Daan Vriens. Daan Vriens, a seasoned professional with a blend of Brabant and Rotterdam roots, embarked on a dynamic career journey that reflects his resilience and adaptability. Beginning at Cargill in Rotterdam, where he delved deep into the refining of tropical oils Daan swiftly rose through the ranks, exploring international opportunities in Singapore and...

In our third episode we are joined by David Behrends. David has an extensive career in the trading world. His career in coffee began at Dreyfus, followed by a significant 12-year tenure at Noble Group (later Coffco). Eight and a half years ago, he made a pivotal move to Geneva, joining Sucafina, where he currently is Managing Partner and Head of Trading. In addition to his extensive career in the...

In our second episode we are joined by Ivo Sarjanovic. Ivo has had a successful career as a trader at Cargill where he ended up as head of the Sugar business unit. He now spends his time advising companies as non-executive board member. Furthermore he is an agricultural commodities professor, author and VC ag tech investor! We thoroughly enjoyed this conversation and hope you will too. References:...

In our first episode of the Strong Source podcast, we share our personal stories, from the trading floor to starting the commodity intelligence platform Vesper. But that's not all! Join us as we dive into why the agri commodity world is so interesting. From the thrill of the markets to the impactful role of agriculture, we spill the beans on what makes this industry so special. References Book: Co...

Get ready to dive deep into the world of commodities with Strong Source, a podcast featuring two industry veterans who know trading inside and out. In this trailer, we introduce Martijn and Alexander, two former traders with a wealth of experience and a passion for innovation.