American Plains Co-op Announces CEO Search

APPLICATION AND INQUIRIES

This placement is being coordinated by ProValue HR Consulting on behalf of American Plains Co-op.   Please send your cover letter and resume no later than January 19, 2023, to Sara Kepley, ProValue HR Consulting at skepley@provalueins.com.  Application materials will only be accepted via email.

ABOUT AMERICAN PLAINS CO-OP

From humble beginnings in 1959, American Plains Co-op has grown to 16 elevators, 13 fueling sites, agronomy, seed, feed, bulk fuel, grain, and farm supply services across Kansas and Oklahoma.  Their headquarters is located in Great Bend, Kansas, which is centrally located.  The Cooperative has grown significantly, with annual sales totally nearly $250 million dollars and 175 full-time employees.  To learn more, please visit their website at www.apcoop.com.

POSITION SUMMARY

The CEO of the American Plains Co-op must have broad management experience in an ag-cooperative or in a similar agriculturally focused company.  Preferably their background would have several years of experience in grain merchandising and management.  The CEO is responsible for leading a team of seasoned and experienced management professionals.  Together they must successfully execute the strategy and vision for the Cooperative, while simultaneously managing the day-to-day operations.  Therefore, CEO candidates must have demonstrated exceptional leadership presence and experience that includes responsive communication and collaborative management.  Successful candidates must also possess financial acumen, solid business instincts and the ability to work with and for a board of directors.  The American Plains Co-op prides itself on being innovative and willing to challenge the status-quo, so the next CEO must thrive in this type of environment and enjoy being challenged.  The CEO needs to fully understand and embrace the Cooperative principles so that they are approachable and relatable in their service to the patrons.  They will be expected to reside in the Cooperative’s trade territory.

Position Requirements and Qualifications:

• A bachelor's degree in a related field, 3 – 5 years of Cooperative management or ag-business experience, or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
• Complete understanding and experience in financial management.  Knows the financial position of the company inside and out.
• A strong background in grain trading and management.
• Be knowledgeable about all facets of the business including grain handling and marketing, agronomy, seed, energy, c-stores and feed.
• Be both achievement oriented and service minded.
• A solid critical thinker with a successful track record of sound business decisions. 
• Excellent public speaking skills and presence. 
• A seasoned and successful manager of talent that can coach and hold employees accountable. 
• Being willing to be a presence in all the communities that the Cooperative serves in Kansas and Oklahoma.
• Be willing to reside in the Cooperative’s trade territory.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:  The Cooperative offers a competitive executive salary package with full benefits including Coop retirement.