Meet the SRP Board Candidates 2024

Kylie Porter, Head of Sustainability

SunRice

Bio:
Kylie Porter is a sustainability and ESG-risk professional with more than 20 years’ experience in sustainability strategy and leadership roles. As SunRice Group’s Head of Sustainability, Kylie leads on the development and execution of the Group’s sustainability strategy globally, including across key areas of climate change, biodiversity, human rights and community investment. This includes the Group’s Net Zero commitment and implementation of its emissions reduction targets, which includes initiatives to decarbonise rice.

Kylie was previously the Executive Director of the UN Global Compact Network Australia — the Australian Local Network of the United Nations Global Compact — where she transformed the organisation into Australia’s largest corporate sustainability initiative. Kylie has held corporate sustainability roles in financial services, professional services and international NGO sectors across Australia, Singapore and the United Kingdom. Kylie is driven by her ambition to enable organisations to achieve positive change for people and planet by embedding sustainability principles and commitments into corporate strategy. Kylie was recognised as an ESG Power50 by FS Sustainability in 2024.

Currently, Kylie is member of the Australian Government’s Expert Advisory Group on Modern Slavery, the Australian Agricultural Sustainability Framework (AASF) Expert Advisory Group, the Co-Chair of Footy for Climate and the Deputy Chair of XSPI’s Advisory Committee. She was previously a board member of the UN Global Compact and an adviser to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s External Advisory Group for Australia’s new International Development Policy. Kylie holds a Masters in Social Science (International Development), is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a fellow of the Cranlana Institute’s Vincent Fairfax Fellowship on Ethical Leadership. 

Motivation:
I am applying for a position on the SRP Board as a ‘supply chain actor’. I hold over 20 years’ experience in sustainability across the corporate, not-for-profit, United Nations and consulting sectors. My professional experience includes leadership positions with the United Nations and listed companies and I have recently moved into the food sector as the Group Head of Sustainability for SunRice – a company with operations in 10 countries and that sources rice from over 12 countries, including owning and operating rice mills in Australia, the US and Vietnam. The SunRice Group has branded products in over 50 countries globally that includes packed rice, value add products such as snacks and ambient meals, ruminant feed, horse feed, pet food and a gourmet food business that imports goods predominantly from Europe. We hold significant market share in Australia and the Pacific Islands and strong market share for medium-grain rice in the Middle East.

The SunRice Group’s sustainability strategy is focused on decarbonisation, biodiversity and respecting human rights. We are the second company in Australia to set a Forestry, Land and Agricultural (FLAG) Science Based Target and we are underway in developing and publishing our Net Zero Roadmap, which includes initiatives to decarbonise rice growing practices throughout our supply chain. We also have a strong focus on respecting human rights, working with our suppliers to put practices in place to reduce the risk of harm to people and enable us to manage and respond to human rights risks. 

SunRice’s sustainability strategy is strongly aligned to the SRP’s aim to “feed the world sustainably by improving rice production and reducing its environmental impact”. SunRice have been a member of the SRP for numerous years and we are now in a strong position to strengthen that engagement and look at ways of integrating SRP verified into the way in which we do business for our own milling operations and within our supply chain. To do this, collaboration across the rice value chain is required. 

My expertise in sustainability, coupled with my strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities present for SunRice will allow me to contribute to SRP’s growth both in terms of the size of the initiative and its reputation. As a medium-sized enterprise, I am also able to bring a pragmatic view to the SRP Board – highlighting the ways in which stakeholders can work collaboratively to strengthen the rice industry’s contribution to sustainable development.  

Raúl Uraga, Operations Manager

SAMAN

Bio: 
I am 48 years old, agronomist with a degree from the University of the Republic of Uruguay, complemented by a Postgraduate degree in Agribusiness and an MBA from IEEM Business School.  

With 20 years of experience at Uruguay’s leading rice company, SAMAN, I began my career as a field technician, supporting 30 farmers in the central region. I then advanced to agricultural management, overseeing a team of 7 agronomists and serving 170 farmers. 

Currently, I lead the entire operations area, which encompasses industrial plant management (8 plants), planning and logistics (750.000 ton paddy), rice sourcing (80.000 hás), and quality assurance.  

Despite being a very small country where only 1% of the territory is cultivated with rice, Uruguay ranks among the world’s top 10 rice exporters, known for its internationally recognized quality.  

We export to over 60 countries and are one of the top three countries globally in terms of yield per hectare, positioning me to provide valuable insights and strategic guidance in all the supply chain, including the agricultural and industrial sector. 

I participate in the Uruguayan Rice Technology Network, collaborating with the Technological Laboratory of Uruguay (LATU – www.latu.org.uy), the Association of Rice Producers of Uruguay (ACA – www.aca.com.uy), and the National Institute of Agricultural Research (INIA – www.inia.uy). I´m also part of the board of the Rice Millers Asociation of Uruguay (GMA – molinosarroceros.com). 

Participating in the Rice Technology Network gives me a broad perspective on research and development, the use of new technologies in rice industrial processes, and an understanding of the emerging demands of consumers in more discerning countries. This allows me to stay at the forefront of the international market in terms of exporting high-quality rice with certified processes throughout all stages of production. 

I had the privilege of being invited by GRISP/IRRI to present at the 2012 conference, where I showcased Uruguay as an international benchmark in rice production, processing, and exportation. This opportunity allowed me to highlight our country’s unique agricultural practices, emphasizing our commitment to sustainability and quality. Presenting this case not only reinforced Uruguay’s position on the global stage but also facilitated valuable exchanges with experts in the field, further enriching my understanding of best practices and innovations in rice agriculture. 

Motivation:
I am deeply motivated to participate in the Board due to my longstanding passion for sustainability. For over 10 years, I have been involved in initiatives aimed at certifying rice production based on environmental qualities. Uruguay stands out as the only country where rice is produced exclusively in rotation systems with other crops or pastures, prohibiting continuous monoculture. This practice not only ensures high yields but also promotes low use of agrochemicals and fertilizers. 

Additionally, I place significant emphasis on water management. I have extensive experience in administering both public and private irrigation systems, providing irrigation services to over 30,000 hectares of rice. By participating in the council, I hope to further contribute to sustainable practices in agriculture, aligning economic growth with environmental stewardship. 

Integrating the advisory council would be an honor for me, as it would allow me to share my experiences with professionals from different fields and countries. I am eager to learn from diverse realities and be part of a dedicated group focused on environmental preservation and social aspects throughout the rice supply chain. I have traveled multiple times to Southeast Asia and other countries in the region, always seeking to expand my knowledge in the rice sector. I believe that collaboration and exchange of ideas are crucial for advancing sustainable practices and enhancing the global rice industry. 

Niroj Mohanty, Founder and Managing Director

Core Carbon X Sols Pvt Ltd

Bio:
Total years of Experience: 20 Years in Climate Change and Sustainability including Sustainable Rice Cultivation.

Niroj Mohanty is the Managing Director and CEO of Core CarbonX Sols Pvt Ltd, where he leads a global team dedicated to addressing climate change through sustainability advisory and asset management. As a founding partner, he played a crucial role in establishing the company’s global climate business, leveraging his extensive expertise in carbon and climate solutions since 2005.

Before his tenure at CoreCarbonX, Niroj was instrumental in launching carbon-related initiatives for prominent organizations such as PricewaterhouseCoopers and CantorCO2e in India. His significant contributions to the field include serving on the Methodologies Panel of the CDM Executive Board and advising several Climate-Tech enterprises.

Currently, Niroj is a member of the Methodologies Expert Panel within the Carbon Cells at the Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India, where he collaborates on the development of methodologies for the Carbon Credit Trending Scheme (CCTS) offset mechanism focused on rice cultivation. He is actively leading efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across rice fields covering over 100,000 hectares in six states of India under the Voluntary Carbon Market. 

Niroj holds an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Mumbai and a Bachelor of Technology in Textile Technology from Utkal University. His passion for sustainability and commitment to innovative solutions continue to drive progress in the field of climate action.

Motivation:
I am excited to submit my candidacy for a position on the Board of the Sustainable Rice Platform (SRP) on behalf of Core CarbonX Sols Pvt Ltd under the constituency “Service, input and equipment providers”. With extensive experience in sustainable agriculture and climate solutions, I am deeply committed to promoting practices that enhance productivity while safeguarding our environment. My professional journey has equipped me with the insights and skills to contribute meaningfully to the SRP’s mission of advancing worldwide sustainable rice production.

As a member of the Methodologies Panel of the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) Executive Board, I have gained invaluable experience in developing and assessing methodologies that support carbon reduction initiatives. This role has honed my understanding of the complexities involved in implementing sustainability practices within agricultural systems. Additionally, my work as an advisor to various Climate-Tech enterprises has enriched my knowledge of innovative technologies that can help transform rice cultivation into a more sustainable endeavor. 

In my current position on the Methodologies Expert Panel within the Carbon Cells at the Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India, I actively collaborate on developing methodologies for the Carbon Credit Trending Scheme (CCTS) offset mechanism, specifically tailored for rice cultivation. This experience has provided me with a deep understanding of the agronomic challenges faced by rice farmers, as well as the potential for carbon markets to incentivize sustainable practices that can improve both yields and environmental outcomes. 

I am particularly passionate about engaging with diverse stakeholders to promote sustainable agricultural practices that are economically viable and socially equitable. My extensive project development and management background—particularly in the context of carbon credit programs and sustainable farming practices covering over 100,000 hectares—uniquely positions me to contribute to the SRP’s goals. I have had the privilege of leading initiatives that integrate sustainable agriculture with climate action, focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions while enhancing productivity and resilience in rice cultivation.

I believe that a collaborative approach is essential for driving innovation and achieving the SRP’s objectives. Being part of the SRP Board would be an incredible opportunity to leverage my insights, experiences, and passion for sustainable rice production. I am eager to work alongside fellow board members and stakeholders to promote sustainable practices, mitigate the impacts of climate change, and ensure that rice remains a vital source of nutrition and livelihood for communities worldwide.

My vision for the SRP encompasses a focus on building stronger partnerships among farmers, researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders to advance sustainable rice cultivation practices that address both food security and environmental sustainability. I am determined to contribute my expertise in methodologies and my unwavering commitment to sustainability to support the SRP in its vital work.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the essential efforts of the Sustainable Rice Platform and to help shape a sustainable future for rice production.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sandra Razanamandranto, Director of the Regional Engagement & Communications Division

Preferred by Nature

Bio: 
Sandra Razanamandranto is the Director of the Regional Engagement & Communications Division of Preferred by Nature where she is responsible for developing regional strategies for our organisation that aims to expand Preferred by Nature’s activities on all continents through the expansion of our services, as well as through the establishment of key alliances and partnerships. Sandra also acts as the Cocoa Commodity Lead for Preferred by Nature, representing the organisation in all aspects related to the commodity which involves advocating and facilitating the widespread adoption of sustainable practices in cocoa production landscapes and supply chains.  

Prior to joining Preferred by Nature in 2018, Sandra worked as Africa Regional Director of Rainforest Alliance certification unit. She also spent over 10 years’ experience in the private sector guiding forestry and agricultural industries to obtain international certifications such as FSC, RSPO and ISO 14 001. In addition, she was also actively involved in the drafting of national FSC and RSPO standards and did engage with various stakeholders such as civil society, government institutions, private sectors etc.. Sandra was part of the first forest certification training programme in Africa. 

She is currently member of Preferred by Nature’s Senior Management Group and is committed to fostering leadership in sustainability. Sandra is based in Accra, Ghana. 

Motivation:
I am excited to apply for the position of Board Member for the Sustainable Rice Platform.

With a background in sustainable agriculture and over 20 years of experience working with development and implementation of certification schemes, stakeholder engagements and responsible land use practices especially in producing countries, I feel deeply committed to SRP’s mission of advancing sustainability within the rice sector.

My professional experience has equipped me with valuable insights into the complexities of sustainable supply chains for various commodities, from field-level practices to market demands, as well as the role of stakeholder collaboration in achieving large-scale impact often in complex and challenging environments. Also, being exposed to concrete international experience – in addition to my personal multicultural background – have allowed me to adapt to cultural sensitivity and to develop a solid and unique global network.

Being part of a Preferred by Nature’s Senior Management Group and having participated in several Board meetings have enabled me to strengthen my leadership skills in goal setting and vision development, in strategic decision making and in effective collaboration with diverse professionals.

Finally, growing up in Madagascar has naturally exposed me from a young age to the vital role the rice sector plays in the country’s culture and economy, as well as the struggles and challenges faced by rice farmers.

I am confident that these backgrounds and skills provide me solid advantages to actively participate in advancing SRP’s goals and supporting the platform’s impact on farmers, ecosystems, and the global food system.

I am eager to bring my knowledge, leadership, passion, and insights to the Board, thank you for considering my application.

Ezhil Subbian, CEO

String Bio

Bio:
Dr. Ezhil Subbian serves as the CEO of String. As one of the world leaders in gas fermentation, String’s proprietary platform enables biomanufacturing of sustainable ingredients from greenhouse gases, for sectors fundamental to living including, food, agriculture and environment. String’s vision is to redefine manufacturing and make sustainability market relevant.

Prior to String, Ezhil played key roles in biobased product innovation at different early-stage companies in the Silicon Valley ecosystem. Building on her experience over the last 20 years in biobased product commercialization and market growth, Ezhil’s drive is to leverage the technology prowess of the west and the manufacturing capabilities of the east to develop sustainable innovations that can have global impact. She serves on the board of ABLE-India and CII-National Biotechnology Committee. 

Ezhil’s work was most recently recognized with the Women Transforming India Award 2018 from United Nations & NITI Aayog.