Rafael Leguisamo

Leading the development of a premium beef export project from South America, aligning sustainable production with the traceability and quality standards required by the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Focused on building sustainable livestock value chains through innovation, certification, and international market positioning. Seeking strategic alliances and market opportunities for certified, sustainable, high-quality beef.

I advise agrifood companies on the design and validation of technological solutions for livestock monitoring, as well as on the development of business models for the export of differentiated beef. My work combines technical–productive analysis, financial modeling, commercial strategy, and robust traceability systems, with a focus on key value attributes such as animal welfare, pasture-based production, international certifications, and environmental sustainability. I design strategic roadmaps, support field validations and institutional coordination, and evaluate opportunities to scale value-added beef products in high-demand markets such as the U.S., Europe, and Asia.

Serving as a full member of the Beef Commission of the Angus Breeders Society of Uruguay, contributing to the definition of strategic guidelines for the promotion, value creation, and international positioning of Uruguay Angus Beef.

As Business Development Manager, I spearheaded the creation and growth of a branded grass-fed beef business, successfully entering competitive international markets in Europe, Asia, North, and South America. Key achievements include: Strategic Leadership: Directed all business activities related to beef production, from marketing strategies and certifications to quality assurance and market analysis, ensuring alignment with sustainability goals. Global Expansion: Developed strategic alliances with local processors and international buyers, securing pivotal contracts and building long-term relationships to expand market presence. Efficiency Optimization: Established "farm-to-fork" supply chains, improving operational efficiency and ensuring product traceability and excellence. Global Representation: Represented Ingleby Farms at international trade fairs and events, positioning the brand as a leader in sustainable agriculture and responsible food production. This role allowed me to combine my passion for sustainability with my expertise in business development, driving innovation and profitability while maintaining a strong commitment to environmental and social responsibility.

As Country Manager, I led the acquisition, development, and operation of over 25,000 hectares of farmland, overseeing large-scale agricultural and livestock operations with a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and operational efficiency. Key achievements include: Strategic Operations Management: Directed diverse agricultural activities, including cattle breeding and crop production, while implementing modern practices such as no-till farming, precision agriculture, and large-scale irrigation systems. Sustainability Leadership: Established and managed herds of over 15,000 Aberdeen Angus cattle, achieving certifications for hormone-free, antibiotic-free, and animal welfare standards. Team Development: Built and managed a high-performing team of more than 55 employees, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence. Commercial Optimization: Oversaw grain production and commercialization, streamlining logistics for direct exports to international markets and boosting profitability. This role allowed me to align local operations with global strategies, combining environmental stewardship with business growth, and positioning Ingleby Farms Uruguay as a model for sustainable agriculture and livestock production.

Administrador Establecimientos Agropecuarios

Technical Advisor – Agromil Ltda / Bayer CropScience As a Technical Advisor, I supported agricultural producers by developing and implementing innovative solutions for pest and disease management, enhancing crop productivity and reducing costs. Key achievements include: Innovation in Crop Management: Designed and introduced advanced pest and disease control tools, leveraging cutting-edge technologies to optimize yields and improve efficiency. Sustainable Practices: Delivered research-based advisory services to promote sustainable agricultural practices, ensuring environmental stewardship and long-term viability for producers. Research and Development: Conducted and led projects focused on optimizing agrochemical use, improving both cost-effectiveness and environmental impact. Client Support: Collaborated closely with farmers and agricultural businesses to tailor solutions that met specific challenges, driving measurable improvements in productivity and profitability. This role allowed me to combine technical expertise and innovation to address key challenges in agriculture, contributing to more efficient and sustainable farming practices.

As Country Manager, I advised international investors on strategic opportunities in the agricultural sector, specializing in farmland acquisitions and sustainable land development in South America. Key achievements include: Investment Strategy: Conducted in-depth evaluations of farmland productivity, potential for high-yield production, and long-term profitability, delivering actionable insights for clients. Sustainable Practices Guidance: Provided expert advice on implementing sustainable agricultural practices, aligning investments with environmental and business goals. Market Expansion: Supported clients in navigating local markets, building partnerships, and optimizing land use to maximize returns on investment. Client Success: Played a key role in facilitating successful acquisitions and development strategies for high-value agricultural properties. This role allowed me to combine my technical expertise in agriculture with a strategic focus on international investment, delivering tailored solutions that balanced profitability with sustainability.