Growing up in South Africa in a home filled with love and academic excellence—his mother a medical doctor, his father a military man and chartered accountant – Jurgens’ early years were focused on sport, girls, and mischief rather than the classroom. This would later ignite a transformation that defined his career: he became a relentless, curious learner.
After completing undergraduate and postgraduate studies in geology, earning registration as a Natural Scientist, plus an MBA and postgraduate diploma in Management, Jurgens continued his education at prestigious institutions including Gordon’s Institute of Business Studies and Harvard Business School, completing courses in Project Management, Operational Excellence, and Key Account Management.
At global agricultural leader Syngenta, Jurgens began as a Field Scientist, building his foundation from the ground up. He witnessed firsthand how quality products drive sustainability in agriculture, learning the intricacies of Research & Development at field level. His exceptional performance led to his promotion to Crop Protection Development Project Manager for Africa Middle East, where he successfully managed over 150 projects across 50+ countries throughout the region. Proving his leadership capabilities, Jurgens was then promoted to Seedcare Business Manager, where he led a highly competent team to successfully develop and launch Cruiser Ultimate, a major new product introduction for South Africa. This career progression – from technical expert to regional project leader to business manager – demonstrates his versatility and ability to thrive in both cost centers and profit centers.
As an entrepreneur, Jurgens has built and expanded his family’s agricultural business since purchasing his first farm in 2019, while also establishing successful ventures in commercial feedlot operations and alluvial diamond mining consulting.
Above all, Jurgens is a happy, adventurous individual who believes the world’s most important currency is the positive effect you have on others.
