Organic Valley cultivates change, leadership with first female CEO

Organic farmer-owned cooperative Organic Valley has selected Shawna Nelson as the cooperative’s fourth CEO, effective today. Nelson has extensive experience at the organic farming coop, having started as an intern and worked in the organization for 20 years. During her tenure, she served in roles in marketing, sales analysis, recruitment, employee relations, field operations and dairy pool management.

Nelson succeeds Jeff Frank, who leaves to assume the CEO role at Monogram Foods. He had served as CEO at Organic Valley since 2023, and during his tenure had helped it achieve the #1 branded market share for the organic dairy category, according to the company.

What they are saying

Organic Valley farmer and board president Dave Hardy acknowledged Frank’s contributions to the co-op and expressed optimism about what the co-op will accomplish with Nelson’s guidance.

"Jeff’s achievements were remarkable, and we are enthusiastic about the opportunities ahead," Hardy said in a release. "The board chose Shawna because of her demonstrated strong leadership, understanding of the farmer membership and connection to the employees. She has shown dedication to the mission and to organic food, and with her vision will lead our farmer-owned cooperative forward."

"I am deeply honored to build on the momentum developed through Jeff’s leadership and step into the role of CEO," Nelson said. "The dedication and passion of our employees, board, and farmer member-owners inspire me every day. I look forward to working in collaboration across the cooperative to build on our successes and continue to serve our mission now and for generations to come."

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