BIOTROP announces Jonas Hipolito as new President
BIOTROP, a division of the BioFirst Group, a global leader in biological and natural solutions for agriculture, operating in more than 70 countries, announced an important change in its executive leadership today. After seven years of transformative work, Antonio Carlos Zem is stepping down as President and passing the baton to Jonas Hipólito, co-founder and current Director of Strategy and Innovation at the company. Antonio Carlos Zem will assume a Position at the Global Boardand and has the mission to contribute with his experience and vision to the other Group divisions.
Jonas will become BIOTROP’s President on January 15. Zem will oversee the transition until March 31, when he will assume a position on BioFirst’s Global Board. This new position will allow Zem to continue supporting BIOTROP’s expansion and share his experience, vision, and strategies with all BioFirst Divisions.
The succession process has been carefully planned, underscoring the company’s commitment to the continuity of its strategic vision. During his tenure, Antonio Carlos Zem spearheaded numerous initiatives that drove substantial growth, technological innovation, and global expansion.
Under Zem’s leadership, Biotrop achieved over BRL 760 million in revenue in less than seven years, expanded its production capacity, introduced cutting-edge technologies, enhanced market access, and laid the groundwork for sustainable long-term growth.
“I am grateful to the entire Biotrop team for their support and passionate commitment to innovation over the years. I am proud of what we have accomplished together and fully trust that Jonas is ready to carry our mission forward, supported by an extraordinary team,” said Antonio Carlos Zem.
Jonas Hipólito brings a fresh, innovative perspective to the role. With extensive experience in the industry, Jonas has been instrumental as Director of Strategy and Innovation at BIOTROP, leading the development of multiple successful technologies and spearheading the company’s global expansion initiatives, including its entry into the U.S. and European Union markets.
An agronomist from ESALQ - USP, Jonas holds a master’s degree in Sustainable Crop Production from Montpellier SupAgro in France and certifications in Marketing Strategy from Cornell University and Finance from Harvard University.
His approach combines a focus on innovation, sustainability, digital transformation, and fostering closer connections with customers worldwide.
“It is an honor to take on this role at such a promising time for BIOTROP. I aim to strengthen our purpose further, drive technological advancements, and continue delivering value to our employees, customers, and partners,” said Jonas Hipólito, the company’s new President.
With this transition, BIOTROP reinforces its commitment to its core values and mission of providing high-quality agricultural solutions that transform the industry. The company will continue to invest in sustainability and innovation and strengthen its operations in Brazil and abroad, recognizing the country’s strategic role in the global growth of biological solutions.
A pioneer in advanced technologies within the segment, including patented formulations, the company aims to accelerate its internationalization efforts. In addition to Brazil, BIOTROP currently markets its products in Paraguay, Argentina, Bolivia, Uruguay, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, the European Union, and the United States.
“Brazil is the fastest-growing market in the world for biologicals. BIOTROP plays a strategic role in the global growth of the BioFirst Group, and Jonas Hipólito is a key figure in this journey. We are confident in his innovative vision and look forward to what we can achieve together.” said Jean-Marc Vandoorne, CEO of BioFirst, during the announcement of the leadership transition to employees.
