The Grain and Feed Association of Illinois today announced that Jeff Adkisson, Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer, has informed the Association’s Board of Directors of his intention to retire during the third quarter of 2027.
By providing advanced notice of his planned retirement, Jeff and the Board aim to ensure a thoughtful, well-planned leadership transition that maintains continuity and stability for the Association and the industry it serves.
“It has been the professional privilege of my life to work on behalf of this Association and its members,” said Jeff. “I am proud of the strength, credibility, and unified voice this Association represents today.”
He began his career with the Association in July of 1987 and has spent nearly four decades advocating for the state’s grain and feed industry, strengthening member services, and guiding the organization through evolving regulatory, economic, and policy challenges.
Mark Heil, Executive Committee Chair, expressed appreciation for Jeff’s leadership and foresight. “We are grateful for his many years of dedicated service and for providing the Board with ample time to plan. The Association is well positioned, and we look forward to working closely with him during this transition period.”
The Board of Directors will oversee the succession process and will, at the appropriate time, determine the timeline and approach for identifying the Association’s next Executive Vice President/CEO. Importantly, Jeff will continue to serve as Executive Vice President/CEO with full responsibility for the management and direction of the Association until his retirement.
Appropriate updates will be shared as the transition planning process moves forward.