RWC Member Spotlight : Youval Rasin of DekelOil

We are back with our Member spotlight. To introduce you to our diverse member base and allow you to get to know each other better, we decided to do a series of small interviews within the RWC community. Our member highlighted this time is Youval Rasin, from DekelOil.

RWC: Can you tell us a little bit more about DekelOil?

Youval: DekelOil is a large-scale palm oil production operation located in the east of Côte d’Ivoire. It is publicly listed on the London Stock exchange. We work together with over 3,000 small farmers and co-operatives which together with our 1,900ha of oil palm estates, provide the fresh fruit bunches to produce 40,000tn of crude palm oil per year.

RWC: What is your role in the company and what is the main focus and goals of DekelOil at the moment?

Youval:  I am the Founder and CEO of Dekeloil.  Our team of over 400 people in Côte d’Ivoire is constantly striving to improve all aspects of our palm oil operation and we are particularly proud of the positive impact our business has made within the region we operate.  We are also very excited to move into cashew production next year which will create an additional 500 new jobs as well as create new relationships with thousands of cashew farmers in the north of Côte d’Ivoire.

RWC: What did you first think about the idea of coming to Abidjan and how was your adjustment to the life in the city?

Youval: My family has been doing business in Côte d’Ivoire since 2001.  We might be biased but we think it is the best country to live and build businesses in West Africa.

RWC: What are your favorite activities in Abidjan?

Youval:  I will just say I love to eat so the food is a highlight! I particularly love the local seafood which is as good as you will find anywhere in the world.  I am also excited to be one of the first members of the Royal Work Club.  It is a great office environment and I am already building so many new business relationships and friendships through the Club.

We hope these small interviews will inspire you to start a conversation or even begin a new collaboration. We are looking forward to introducing you to more of our magnificent members and their exciting projects!