Sacha’s leadership is anchored in a vision that is customer-centric, resilient, and deeply collaborative. Sacha Prost is now assuming the CEO role by leading several transformative initiatives at AgFlow, embracing a commitment to technological advancement for Agri-business. He integrated the Ubuntu culture within his teams. The spirit of competition and excellence where you win or lose together but always knowing you have given your best.
1 – Eureka Moment: Can you tell us about an ‘eureka’ moment in your trading career, a decision or innovation that changed everything for you? What story is behind this major pivot?
One of the most revealing moments was realizing the need to rethink our commercial approach and pricing strategy. Upon becoming the CEO of AgFlow, I immediately identified that the existing approach did not adequately reflect our added values and our position in the value chain. This realization led to a complete overhaul of our marketing strategy and pricing policy. We fragmented our pricing strategy, recognizing that we couldn’t appeal to everyone with a broad product. By specifically targeting different market segments and tailoring our offerings accordingly, we not only clarified our positioning but also improved our ability to convert and retain customers. This pivot was a true growth catalyst, transforming our image from merely a data seller to a trusted partner.
2 – Technological Futurism: If you had an unlimited budget to develop a technology for the trading sector, what would it be and how would it revolutionize the industry?
With an unlimited budget, I would develop an integrated trading platform powered by artificial intelligence, capable of providing real-time insights and ultra-accurate forecasts on market trends. This platform would use machine learning algorithms to analyze vast amounts of data, from weather conditions to economic fluctuations, and offer personalized recommendations for each user. Such an innovation would transform the industry by making trading decisions more precise and efficient, thereby reducing risks and increasing profit margins for traders.
3 – Leadership Anecdotes: What is the most difficult decision you have had to make as a leader? How did this experience transform your approach to management and company culture?
One of the toughest decisions I had to make was the complete restructuring of our sales team. This decision involved layoffs, which is always difficult, but necessary to align our team with our new commercial strategy. This experience taught me the importance of transparency and communication. By clearly explaining the reasons for these changes and providing those who were leaving with support for their transition, I was able to maintain the morale of the remaining team and strengthen our company culture based on trust and responsibility.
4 – Cultural Contrasts: Share an experience where understanding a cultural nuance made all the difference in a negotiation or business deal. How did this experience enrich your overall approach?
I was incredibly fortunate to have the childhood I had and to grow up in Switzerland in a very multicultural environment with friends from all over the world. Speaking four languages often allows me to put myself in the shoes of the people I’m talking to, thus facilitating the creation of connections. These connections are essential not only for professional success but also for enjoying one’s work.
I always put myself in the position of the analyst who will analyze our data to see how I can help. At Agflow, we believe in long-term support, relationships, and understanding the needs of our clients, regardless of their origin. This ability to adapt and understand various cultural contexts is one of our major strengths, allowing us to build strong and lasting relationships with our partners around the world.
5 – Bold Predictions: What is your boldest prediction for the future of trading? Are there emerging trends or innovations that you think are currently underestimated by the industry?
I predict that the integration of blockchain into trading processes will revolutionize the industry in terms of transparency and traceability. Although this technology is still underutilized, it has enormous potential to secure transactions and reduce fraud. Companies that adopt this technology early will have a significant competitive advantage.
6 – Influences and Inspirations: Who are the personalities or thinkers, within or outside the trading industry, who have influenced your professional vision? Is there a book or work that has been particularly significant to you?
The book “Multipliers” by Liz Wiseman has profoundly influenced my vision of leadership. It explores how some leaders amplify the intelligence and capabilities of their teams, while others stifle them. This reading inspired me to always strive to be a multiplier leader, creating an environment where each team member can excel. Another major influence was Isadore Sharp, the founder of Four Seasons, whose human-centered approach showed me the importance of employee satisfaction for ensuring a company’s long-term success.
7 – Societal Impact: Beyond profit and growth, what societal contribution do you aspire to achieve through your work in trading? How do you envision your sector playing a positive role in global issues such as sustainability, social equity, or education?
I believe it’s important to approach these themes with a certain modesty. Although our company is young and dynamic, we might not yet have the scope to go as far as we would like at this stage. However, this doesn’t mean we can’t have a positive impact right now. At Agflow, we focus on small daily actions that contribute to a pleasant work environment and employee satisfaction.
One of our initiatives is the creation of our “Run Club,” where we combine sports and work. This helps build strong human connections with our clients and promotes a positive work atmosphere. Additionally, we firmly believe that even as a for-profit company, we have a responsibility to think about our societal impact.
When we reach a significant EBITDA, we will be delighted to invest more in social, educational, and environmental initiatives. For now, we do our best to integrate these values into our company culture and business practices. We aspire to be an example of how a company can balance the pursuit of profit with a positive contribution to society.
8 – Ampersand World SA: How do you evaluate the role of Ampersand World SA in the trading ecosystem?
We are nothing without the team we create; we cannot win without a team, and I believe Ampersand World plays a central role in connecting talents and opportunities in the trading world to bring to life the vision of the human force to be implemented.
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