From the technical side of roses, Hugo Cifuentes used to grow roses commercially for production farms to sales for a rose breeder. He shares his story at the rose breeder United Selections, where he worked for a decade as their Sales Manager.
Since United Selections set foot in Ecuador, Hugo has been with the company, has gone through the challenges, and enjoyed the successes in equal measure. Here are the 10 questions for Hugo Cifuentes on Thursd, enjoy!
Question 1
For those who don’t know you, who are you, and what do you do?
"My name is Hugo Cifuentes, the Sales Manager of United Selections in Ecuador, I am 41 years old, and indeed this year I completed 10 years working in the company.
Working at United Selections has been a constant learning process. From seeking to understand new floral trends to analyzing market needs for different markets. Continuously being in sync with these trends and market needs has enabled us to innovate our breeding process to meet the ever-evolving competition landscape."
Question 2
What is so special about your job?
"It is a good question, for instance, in this business of roses, you have an opportunity to spread the joy and beauty of flowers. Over the years we have bred and introduced different rose varieties, unique colors, and shapes and it’s indeed colorful from this side of the world.
But for me, the most important part is the R&D processes, because, with it, we can constantly supply new intriguing and adaptable rose varieties to the market. Through my job, I have met and become friends with amazing people not only locally but also around the world."
Question 3
Are there any specific challenges or obstacles you’ve faced at work, and how did you overcome them?
"When I started at United Selections, I knew nothing about sales because I was more technical, having worked in production farms before. I enjoyed the support and training from United Selections’ team over the years which has made me an amazing sales professional.
For that, I’m very grateful to all members of the United Selections, that now we are a family and such an incredible team."
Question 4
What are the threats in the industry, and if so, do you have any solutions for them?
"The flower industry is changing constantly, and we at United Selections too. For this reason, we are working every day to get the best varieties focusing on bright colors, high productivity, and amazing shapes. The ever-changing consumer preferences demand a leveling up of our breeding processes to be able to introduce cutting-edge rose varieties and compete well too.
To realize this, we are constantly testing our codes and new varieties in different altitudes and exposing them to fast-growing techniques. Data obtained thereof, we can share with our clients to help them manage these varieties better and achieve the desired value in the end."
Question 5
How has technology like e-commerce platforms or digital marketing affected your industry, which strategies have you employed to stay competitive?
"Today, we are living in a technologically-connected world, and we can get a lot of information quickly. So, we can study and understand new trends quickly, what are consumers looking for, and what the future looks like for the floriculture industry.
The e-commerce platforms have helped a lot to streamline the floral industry and the supply chain processes. Because we can show our products to millions of people around the world effortlessly."
Question 6
Who (in or outside the floral industry) is an inspiring example to you? And Why?
"I find it hard to name one person; I think that all of us who are part of the flower industry serve as an example of perseverance and work. Every day we have to find a way to work with challenging weather patterns, internal and external political instabilities, and market uncertainties. The floral business is a complicated venture but in the same way very beautiful and filled with immense passion and love."
Question 7
How do you handle stress or difficult moments in your life?
"In the flower industry, stress is unavoidable but when we love what we do it becomes easy. I enjoy playing soccer with my friends and cooking with my family, so when I am stressed, I rely on my friends and family to recharge."
Question 8
What has been the best (floral or non-floral) news for you lately, or of the last year?
"We moved from the main farm of the Denmar Group to their San Antonio farm. Now we have more space for showcases, R&D activities, and nice and spacious offices to accommodate our clients. You’re invited to visit our show house whenever you are in Quito, we have an open-door policy that allows you to come in anytime you prefer."
Question 9
Which is your favorite flower/plant and why is it good for you?
"Of course, my favorite flower is a Rose, and I love Rose Rise & Shine, our new yellow rose variety because first I came up with a name when it was still a code under the R&D radar.
Rose Rise & Shine is bright yellow and the color yellow has different means but mainly happiness and positive vibes. It is a very productive variety with a good head size, length, and amazing vase life."
Question 10
What are you doing this weekend?
"This weekend I will be visiting my extended family, I am looking forward to a nice BBQ and great conversations. I have not been with them for a while, looking forward to the weekend already."
All pictures courtesy of Hugo Cifuentes.
