Interview with Rodney Christianson, Chief Executive Officer*

View Video  of the Entire Interview (34.51 minutes)
View Transcription of the Entire Interview

I. Introduction & Background Information   (Video - 5.25 min)  (Transcription)
      - Rodney Christianson's background and experience
      - History of the company
          - Driving factors towards formation
      - Accrued benefits provided

II. Key Drivers of Success  (Video - 3.58 min)  (Transcription)
      - Stability of leadership
      - Strong equity position
      - Competent & experienced management
      - Commitment to organization (reinvestments)

III. Returns Garnered by Shareholders  (Video - 1.25 min)  (Transcription)
      - Original investments
      - Price increases, distribution of profits, appreciation of stock

IV. Business Operations  (Video - 2.11 min)  (Transcription)
      - Customers and Markets

V. Industry Trends & Characteristics  (Video - 4.02 min)  (Transcription)
      - Competitive threats
      - Reaction to competition

VI. Strategy  (Video - 5.32 min)  (Transcription)
      - Opportunities
      - Strategic alternatives

VII. Future of Soy Diesel  (Video - 3.21 min)  (Transcription)
      - Possibility of future legislation
      - Producer/processor roles in determining the future of soy diesel

VIII. Basic Philosophy & Beliefs of the Organization  (Video - 5.37 min)  (Transcription)
      - Drivers of action
      - Growing for a reason
      - Analyzing risk
      - Reacting to strategic threats

IX. Structuring Joint Ventures/Alliances  (Video - 1.57 min)  (Transcription)
      - Setting up a "win-win" outcome

X. Determinants of Future Success  (Video - 1.23 min)  (Transcription)
      - Vision
      - Importance of execution


* Interview conducted by Dr. David Barton, Kansas State University.