Jan Vydra

Appointed to the Hort Innovation Board in 2019, and re-elected in 2021, Jan is a dynamic leader in the agribusiness sector. As a first-generation farmer, he co-founded a leading fresh herb business in 2008, where he developed a passion for innovation and sustainable farming. Prior to this role, Jan led the operations of one of Australia’s most well-known fresh fruit and vegetable distributors.

A committed industry professional, Jan is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company directors. His educational background includes studies in entrepreneurship at RMIT and is completing an Executive MBA from the Australian Graduate School of Management. A recipient of the prestigious 2016 Nuffield Scholarship, Jan’s academic pursuits have solidified his experience in the field.

Jan’s leadership has been widely recognised, earning him the Australian Young Farmer of the Year award in 2011 and the Rabobank Emerging Leader of the Year Award in 2016.