MORGAN, Minn. — Farmward Cooperative recently announced that Chief Executive Officer John Husk will retire on August 31, 2026, concluding a distinguished 49-year career in agriculture. Husk will remain with the cooperative through the end of October to support fiscal year-end activities and ensure a smooth leadership transition.
The Farmward Board of Directors has appointed current Chief Operations Officer Dennis Schreier as the cooperative's next Chief Executive Officer.
Since joining Farmward in 2021, Husk has helped guide the cooperative through a period of strategic growth, organizational development, and operational investment. His leadership strengthened Farmward's culture, advanced key capital projects, invested in employee development, and positioned the cooperative for long-term success.
"John's leadership has helped shape Farmward into the strong, forward-looking cooperative it is today," said Dave Kadlec, Chairman of the Farmward Cooperative Board of Directors. "His vision, integrity, and commitment to our employees, members, and communities have left a lasting impact. On behalf of the Board, we thank John for his outstanding leadership and wish him the very best in retirement."
Prior to joining Farmward, Husk held executive leadership positions throughout the cooperative system and private agriculture industry, including serving as Chief Operating Officer of Agtegra Cooperative and General Manager of Southern States Cooperative. Throughout his career, he became known for building strong organizations by developing people, driving operational excellence, and preparing businesses for future growth.
"I have been incredibly fortunate to spend my career in agriculture during a time of remarkable transformation," Husk said. "My time at Farmward has been especially meaningful, and I am grateful for the relationships built, the challenges we've tackled, and the accomplishments we've achieved together. I have great confidence in Dennis and our leadership team as they continue moving Farmward forward."
Schreier, who has served Farmward and its legacy cooperatives for more than 37 years, will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer on August 31. He most recently served as Chief Operations Officer after previously holding leadership positions including Vice President of Agronomy and Energy, General Manager, Operations Manager, and Agronomy Manager.
Farmward will recognize Husk's career and lasting contributions in the coming weeks through communications celebrating his leadership and legacy.
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About Farmward Cooperative
Farmward Cooperative is a diversified agricultural cooperative serving producers and communities throughout southwest Minnesota. With operations spanning agronomy, grain, energy, feed, retail, and financial services, Farmward is committed to delivering innovative solutions and exceptional service while advancing farming for generations.