Expert Spotlight: Katie Umana

Katie Umana - Columbia, MD

If you’ve ever wondered how Certis Biologicals brings sustainable crop protection solutions to growers around the world, you’ll find the answer in the work of
Katie Umana, International Business Sales Representative.

Katie plays a vital role in expanding Certis Biologicals’ global presence. Covering Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, she works closely with distributors, partners, and grower organizations to deliver innovative tools that support healthier crops and stronger harvests. By building partnerships and advancing sustainable solutions, Katie helps ensure Certis Biologicals makes a lasting impact in agricultural markets worldwide.

What is your role at Certis Biologicals, and how long have
you been in it?

I serve as the International Sales Representative for the EMEAA region, covering Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. In this role, I focus on expanding Certis Biologicals’ presence in diverse agricultural markets, working closely with distributors, partners, and grower organizations to provide innovative and sustainable crop protection solutions. I have had the privilege of serving in this role for the past two years, during which I’ve helped strengthen our partnerships and deliver impactful solutions across the region.

Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you came to work at Certis?

My journey into agriculture began with a deep-rooted interest in sustainable practices. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Plant Biology from the University of Maryland, I gained hands-on experience in research, greenhouse operations, and integrated pest management. This scientific foundation seamlessly transitioned into a career in international sales, where I could bridge the gap between scientific innovation and global agricultural needs. Joining Certis Biologicals felt like a natural progression, aligning my passion for sustainable agriculture with a company dedicated to providing effective, environmentally responsible solutions.

What drew you to the biologicals/agriculture industry?

Agriculture is at the heart of our food systems, environment, and global sustainability. I was drawn to the biologicals industry because it offers solutions that are both effective and environmentally responsible. At Certis Biologicals, I work with a broad portfolio of products for both organic and conventional agriculture, including fungicides, insecticides, miticides, nematicides, and herbicides. Many of these are OMRI-listed or meet stringent third-party certification standards, allowing growers to reduce reliance on conventional chemistry while maintaining productivity and profitability.

What does a typical day look like for you, and how do you collaborate with other departments or teams across the company?

A typical day in my role involves managing a diverse set of markets across the EMEAA region, each with its own regulatory frameworks and customer needs.
My focus is on understanding these local contexts, engaging with growers and distributors, and ensuring that Certis’ solutions provide tangible value. Collaboration is key while working closely with internal teams from R&D, Regulatory, and Marketing allows us to adapt products and strategies to meet regional requirements effectively. Building strong, long-term relationships with distributors and partners is central to my work, ensuring growers receive the guidance and support they need to successfully adopt biological solutions.

What’s your favorite part about working at Certis Biologicals?

What I value most about working at Certis Biologicals is the combination of purpose and people. I have the privilege of collaborating with a team that is deeply committed, knowledgeable, and passionate about advancing sustainable agriculture worldwide. The company’s mission to deliver science-based, environmentally responsible solutions resonates with me personally, and it’s rewarding to see the tangible impact of our work in diverse markets. Being able to contribute to global agricultural innovation while supporting growers and partners is what makes my role both fulfilling and inspiring.

What’s the most challenging part of your role?

The most challenging aspect of my role is managing the diverse and complex needs of markets across the EMEAA region, where regulatory requirements, market conditions, and customer expectations can vary significantly.
Navigating these differences requires careful planning, strategic thinking, and adaptability. While challenging, these complexities make the role dynamic and rewarding, as they provide opportunities to develop innovative solutions, strengthen relationships with distributors and partners, and support growers in implementing sustainable, effective practices.

What excites you most about the future of Certis Biologicals on the global stage?

What excites me most about the future of Certis Biologicals is the opportunity to be part of a company that is shaping the global transition toward sustainable agriculture. The demand for biological crop protection solutions is growing rapidly, and Certis is uniquely positioned to lead this innovation. Being able to contribute to strategies that expand access to effective, environmentally responsible products, while helping growers around the world achieve their goals, is both inspiring and motivating. I am energized by the chance to drive meaningful impact in agriculture on a global scale.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?

If I had the chance to travel, I would love to explore the beautiful historic sites and cultural landmarks across the regions I work with. From Europe’s iconic architecture and rich history to the vibrant traditions and local markets of the Middle East, the diverse cultural heritage of Africa, and the unique innovations in Asia, each region has so much to offer. Experiencing the beauty in local customs, cuisine, and everyday life would be incredibly rewarding. And of course, witnessing the Northern Lights in person is a dream I would truly enjoy.

What’s your favorite Certis product and why?

One product that stands out to me is Azatin®, a biological insect growth regulator that utilizes azadirachtin, derived from the neem tree. Azatin® effectively controls a broad spectrum of greenhouse and nursery pests by disrupting the molting process of immature insects. What I find particularly compelling is its compatibility with Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs and its minimal impact on beneficial insects. This makes it an excellent choice for sustainable agriculture practices. The versatility of Azatin®, combined with its environmentally responsible approach, aligns perfectly with my commitment to providing growers with effective and sustainable solutions.

Whether it’s building partnerships, supporting distributors, or delivering sustainable solutions to diverse markets, Katie’s work ensures that Certis Biologicals makes a meaningful impact worldwide. We’re grateful for the expertise and dedication she brings to advancing biological solutions across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.

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About Certis Biologicals

Certis Biologicals is the leading developer, manufacturer, and distributor of biological innovation such as biofungicides, bioinsecticides, bionematicides, bioherbicides, and plant health-promoting products, servicing the agriculture, turf, greenhouse, home, and garden markets globally. With a proven, broad portfolio of products and a continuous pursuit of new solutions for conventional and organic production, Certis Biologicals is a leader and partner in sustainable crop production trusted by farmers in the U.S. and more than 50 countries across the world. To learn more about Certis Biologicals and their portfolio of proven solutions, visit  CertisBio.com.