Blair Clark and Mike Bachner Retire from Operational Roles as Randy Ritchie Steps in to Lead Grasslands Recruitment Specialists
Grasslands Recruitment Specialists (GRS) has announced a significant leadership transition that positions the organization for continued growth, innovation, and long-term success in the Canadian and North American agribusiness and agri-food sectors.
After decades of dedicated service, Blair Clark, Founder and President of Grasslands, and Mike Bachner, Vice President, will retire from their operational roles. Both will remain involved to complete current active search engagements and serve as interim trusted advisors, ensuring continuity and strategic guidance during this transition.
A New Chapter for Grasslands
Grasslands specializes in mid-to-executive level recruitment within the agricultural industry and became part of AgCareers.com Canada in 2023, which is part of the Farms.com Group of Companies.
As part of this transition, Randy Ritchie will assume leadership of Grasslands as General Manager and Senior Search Consultant, reporting directly to Kathryn Doan, Chief Vision Officer & Director, Talent Solutions Team, AgCareers.com Canada.
Randy brings over 35 years of executive search experience, including more than 650 successful search assignments across executive, senior management, and technical leadership roles. His expertise in strategic hiring, organizational growth, finance, and governance positions Grasslands for continued excellence.
Additionally, Erin Stuart, from De Lacy Executive Recruitment North America, will join Grasslands as a Search Consultant, leveraging her experience to help grow the recruitment business and Talent Solutions Team.
Celebrating Blair Clark and Mike Bachner
Blair Clark’s vision and leadership established Grasslands as one of Canada’s most respected agricultural search firms. His legacy of integrity, deep industry knowledge, and client success continues to shape the organization today.
Mike Bachner’s distinguished career across Bestard Agricultural Placements, AgCall Human Resources/AgStep, and Grasslands brought invaluable multi-sector expertise to agricultural recruitment. Together, Blair and Mike built a legacy that strengthened countless organizations across Canada.
“We extend our sincere gratitude and best wishes to both Blair and Mike as they begin their well-earned retirement, and we are grateful that they will continue to support the organization in an interim advisory capacity,” said Kathryn Doan.
The AgCareers.com Talent Solutions Team includes the following brands: Advancing Women Conference, CareersInFood.com, De Lacy Executive Recruitment, FoodGrads, and Grasslands—all dedicated to advancing talent and leadership in agriculture and food industries.