Leadership

Sam Farris

President

Sam holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and a Master of Science in Thermal Science, both from the University of Saskatchewan. Sam has been with K+S for over 12 years with over 23 years in the potash industry and in his current role since 2018. He and his wife, Lynette, live in Regina.

Leanne Parsons

Chief Financial Officer

Leanne, an accomplished CPA with over 25 years of experience in finance leadership roles, currently serves as Chief Financial Officer. With a diverse background, Leanne excels in strategic management, M&A, and risk mitigation. Beyond her professional endeavours, she is committed to promoting wellness and balance alongside her dedication to her family and Saskatchewan roots.

Darren Hrynkiw

General Manager, Bethune

Darren brings over 25 years of extensive experience in solution mining and upstream oil and gas to his role at K+S. With a degree in Engineering from the U of S, he has been an integral part of the K+S team since the early stages of the Legacy Project in 2011. His diverse background includes work in drilling, service rigs/logging, solution mining, and current role as a General Manager, making him a seasoned leader in the industry.

Markel Chernenkoff

General Counsel and Compliance Officer

Markel is an accomplished lawyer with a multifaceted legal skill set spanning procurement, negotiation, HR, environmental law, commercial disputes, construction law, and complex contractual litigation. As General Counsel & Compliance Officer since May 2020, Markel collaborates closely with all departments. He adeptly navigates complexities to ensure legal compliance, and to provide legal counsel and strategic business advice.

Andrew Gajadhar

Director, Procurement and Corporate Affairs

Andrew has been with K+S for more than 10 years, and leads the areas of Procurement, Indigenous Relations, Government Relations, Business Optimization, and Strategy and Governance. Andrew holds a Master of Arts degree in Public Policy and Administration and Bachelors degrees in Business and Psychology. Andrew’s breadth of interests extends to the many activities he and his family pursue at home in Saskatoon.

Chelsea Iatridis

Director, People and Communications

Chelsea is a motivated CPHR, dedicated to driving organizational success through enhancing the employee experience. As a brand and culture ambassador, Chelsea is responsible for implementing people, talent and communications programs that enables the business success. Residing in Moose Jaw with her family, Chelsea brings her passion for community into her professional life, fostering an inclusive workplace.

Chad Burkholder

Director, Technology and Innovation

Chad leads digital transformations with strategic prowess. Currently pursuing an MBA from the University of Illinois and holding an MSc from Boston University, his expertise in IT strategy, analytics, and project management drives business success and innovation. Residing in Saskatoon, Chad is deeply committed to his family and community, actively coaching soccer, baseball, and hockey teams.

James Wirth

Director, Sustainable Energy Solutions

James oversees energy and decarbonization efforts while spearheading sustainability planning and ESG reporting. With over two decades of experience in energy trading within the Oil and Gas sector across North America, James brings a wealth of expertise to his role at KSPC. When not shuttling their kids to activities, James and his wife Lori enjoy traveling to exotic destinations.

Anthony Clark

Director, Projects

Anthony is a seasoned leader with over 25 years of industry expertise. With a National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering and certifications in Lean Green Belt and Project Management, he excels in guiding teams through growth and diversification, both locally and globally. Anthony’s passion lies in maximizing the potential of skilled teams in competitive environments, fostering success even in uncertain times.

Leading the future

Meet our leadership team