Karel W. Valken
In this capacity as EVP, Global Head Agri Commodities at Rabobank Karel Valken is responsible for their TCF Agri Units in 13 countries. Prior to joining Rabobank International in 2006, he was a Board Member of Nidera Handelscompagnie B.V., a Dutch-Argentinean international processing and trading company in grains and oilseeds from 1996-2006.
He started his career in 1983 at Mees & Hope/MeesPierson (now ABNAMRO) and spend 8 years as the MD of their New York office. From 1989-1996 he was active in financing a wide range of soft and hard commodities and has extensive experience in hemispheres ranging from Europe, the CIS, Asia and the Americas.
He has a degree at the Hogere Economische School of Amsterdam and served as an officer in the Dutch Army after his studies. In addition to his present responsibilities he is also a Board Member of Progreso Foundation active in coffee.