Natalie has over 20 years of experience in the agri-food industry, focusing on business needs assessment and strategy, sustainability process and reporting, partnership development and contract negotiation, food and agriculture policy, and communications.

Prior to joining Benson Hill, Natalie led her own consulting practice with clients ranging from established and emerging companies to NGOs and public institutions across the food & agricultural value chain. Before that, Natalie worked for Monsanto Company for 18 years in roles within Business, Technology, Regulatory Affairs, and Corporate Engagement. She served as Chief Sustainability Officer and led strategy and execution of all sustainability efforts to achieve business goals including environmental sustainability, food and nutrition security, farmer livelihoods and sustainability reporting. She served as a primary spokesperson for the company and led engagement with NGOs, foundations, public research institutions, government organizations and industry to identify and advance common goals. She also served as Vice President of Corporate Engagement for Africa working closely with smallholder farmers. Natalie serves on the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center Leadership Council and the Board of Meds and Food for Kids. She earned her Ph.D. in Environmental Toxicology from the University of Wisconsin – Madison and her B.A. in Biology from St. Mary’s College.