Employee Spotlight: Orlando Rodriguez, Customer Success Specialist

As we continue to grow, our partners’ success becomes an even more critical piece of the puzzle. That’s where Orlando comes in. This month, we chatted with him about his background, fostering trust and collaboration, and his secret to keeping customers coming back.

Can you share a bit about your background and how it led you to join our team?

The main focus of my professional career—and what I am most passionate about—is driving sustainable growth in the agricultural sector. I grew up on a cattle farm in Northern Nicaragua and pursued a degree in agricultural engineering. After college, I worked at a Latin American financial organization specializing in agribusiness. I came to the U.S. for a master’s degree in agricultural economics at Purdue University, and after graduation, I joined the Agriculture Research Team at the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) as a market analyst. For three years, I conducted research and gained a deep understanding of agricultural markets. But I wanted to pivot my career toward understanding how agribusinesses operate. The Customer Success position at DecisionNext offers an incredible opportunity to achieve this while working with a talented and collaborative team.

What excites you most about DecisionNext and working in this field?

I love how our platform bridges the gap between publicly available data and customer data. By doing so, we empower our clients with actionable market insights. It quickly gives them the tools to maximize profits sustainably and make informed decisions that benefit their business and the broader agricultural industry.

Would you share a story where you went above and beyond to help a customer?

I led the creation of a financial vehicle that enabled us to lend $12 million to a poultry customer in Nicaragua. This was the first operation of its kind in the company’s portfolio. It required significant effort to develop and justify a new financial tool that could support the customer’s growth—and ensure the success of their business.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received, and how has it shaped your approach to work?

The best advice I’ve received is that if you’re fortunate enough to work in a field you’re passionate about, you’ll find joy in your work—even during challenging times. This mindset has helped me stay motivated and find fulfillment in my career.

What’s one fun or unexpected fact about you that people wouldn’t guess right away?

I’m an introvert most of the time!

Which historical figure would you most like to have a Zoom meeting with?

Nelson Mandela

What’s the best trip you’ve ever been on and why?

That would have to be the time I went to Bali by myself to get my diving license. I had the chance to be in an unfamiliar crowd and leave my phone in my hotel while I explored the island—totally undistracted. It was nice to take a break from the distraction of social technology and escape for a while

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and how would you use it?

Mind changer. I’d hold conversations with the most influential people in the world to solve hunger and key livelihood inequalities. 

What’s the weirdest food you’ve ever eaten, and would you try it again?

A bean burger has definitely been the weirdest thing. And I would not do it again—haha.

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