We are shining a spotlight on women working in the animal feed and pet food sectors in our series - The Female Vision: Women in Feed.
This week we talk to Delphine Melchior, core nutrition director, Cargill Animal Nutrition & Health.
Career path
Can you share your journey into the feed industry? What inspired you to pursue a career in this field, and what challenges did you face along the way?
I have always been deeply enthusiastic about life sciences, biology, and animals. This passion inspired me to pursue a PhD in pig nutrition and health at the National Agronomic Institute in France. Sponsored by the Japanese company Ajinomoto, I began my career as a subject matter expert in the European market, leveraging my PhD to promote innovative solutions. During this time, I honed valuable skills in customer relations, project management, and innovation application.
My journey then led me to Provimi, which later became part of Cargill. There, I focused on developing and deploying feed additives globally, gaining experience in international markets. This role paved the way for a series of exciting leadership opportunities within Cargill Animal Nutrition & Health. Over the years, I have led global teams across various domains, including technology, research and development, sustainability, and nutrition.
The most significant challenge I’ve faced in my career was taking on roles that didn’t align with my authentic self. I’ve learned that my true leadership style lies in people management and driving meaningful business impact. My goal is to inspire my teams to fulfill our shared mission of advancing the feed and agriculture industry.
Impact of gender
In your experience, how has being a woman influenced your career in the feed industry? Have you encountered any gender-specific challenges or opportunities?
Starting my career in what was then a predominantly male industry, I have never felt that my gender was a barrier. I’ve always been recognized for my competence, a testament to the industry’s high educational standards and international environment. To me, success is determined by abilities, not gender.
Balancing work and family commitments can be challenging for some, but I have always felt supported, even during moments that might seem daunting—like traveling around China while six months pregnant! I’ve been fortunate to work alongside colleagues and supervisors who have consistently treated me with equity and respect.
Over the past decade, I’ve witnessed Cargill make significant strides in applying equity principles. Today, I have the privilege of being part of a strategic marketing and technology leadership team where women outnumber men. I recognize this level of representation is not universal, which is why I am committed to advocating for the reduction of biases of all kinds.
Mentorship and support
How important have mentorship and networking been in your career? Can you share any specific experiences where support from other women or mentors made a difference?
Mentorship, whether from men or women, has been instrumental in shaping my personal and professional growth. Watching how my mentors navigate challenges, manage difficult conversations, and inspire those around them has profoundly influenced my own leadership style.
I have a special admiration for female leaders who embrace their power and ambitions unapologetically, all while infusing their roles with a sense of humor.
Industry changes
What changes have you observed in the feed industry regarding gender diversity and inclusion over the years? What more needs to be done to improve representation and equity?
I feel fortunate to work for a company that genuinely embodies the values of equity, inclusion, and diversity. As a leader, I am committed to upholding these principles within my team. My focus extends beyond female empowerment to supporting all aspects of diversity in the international environment where we operate.
Advice for future generations
What advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter the feed industry? Are there specific skills or experiences you believe are essential?
Success has no single path—it’s shaped by the invaluable lessons we learn from the diverse people and perspectives we encounter along the way. Embrace the journey. In the agriculture and feed industry, we have the incredible opportunity to create sustainable solutions that nourish the world while addressing critical global economic challenges. What could be more exciting or rewarding than that?
Vision for the future
What is your vision for the role of women in the feed industry over the next decade? How can we work together to foster an environment that supports women’s growth and leadership?
In an increasingly diverse and complex world, we need equally diverse people, ideas, and perspectives to fuel innovation and tackle today’s challenges. I believe that women will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of food. The more diverse we are, the more innovative, adaptable, and resilient we will be in navigating the opportunities and challenges of the years ahead.
