What's Happening?
Dairy Management Inc. (DMI) has announced the appointment of Corey Scott as its new President and CEO, following a comprehensive national search. Scott will be the third individual to hold this position in DMI's history, taking over from Barbara O'Brien,
who is set to retire after the 2026 Joint Annual Meeting of the National Dairy Promotion and Research Board, National Milk Producers Federation, and United Dairy Industry Association. Scott previously served as President and CEO of Midwest Dairy, where she oversaw the dairy checkoff across a 10-state region, representing 41.8 million consumers and over 3,600 dairy farm families. Before her role at Midwest Dairy, Scott spent more than 15 years in leadership positions with Land O'Lakes and was Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Athian. She holds a bachelor's degree in agriculture business from the University of Minnesota and an executive master's degree in business administration from the UMN Carlson School of Management. Marilyn Hershey, a Pennsylvania dairy farmer and chair of the DMI board of directors, expressed enthusiasm for Scott's leadership, highlighting her skills, industry knowledge, and commitment to the dairy industry's future.
Why It's Important?
This leadership transition at Dairy Management Inc. is significant for the U.S. dairy industry, as DMI plays a crucial role in promoting dairy products and supporting dairy farmers. As President and CEO, Scott will oversee more than 150 DMI and National Dairy Council employees, representing over 23,000 dairy farmers and importers. Her leadership will be instrumental in guiding strategies aimed at increasing dairy sales, strengthening consumer trust, and creating new opportunities for the next generation of farmers. The dairy checkoff, which DMI manages, is a vital program funded by dairy farmers and importers to drive demand for dairy products. Scott's extensive background in the dairy sector, including her tenure at Midwest Dairy and Land O'Lakes, positions her to effectively navigate the challenges and opportunities facing the industry, such as evolving consumer preferences and market dynamics. Her appointment signals a continued focus on innovation and strategic alignment within the dairy checkoff program, aiming to deliver sustained value to dairy producers and maintain the industry's economic health.
What's Next?
Corey Scott will officially assume her role as President and CEO of Dairy Management Inc. following Barbara O'Brien's retirement after the 2026 Joint Annual Meeting. Scott is expected to focus on DMI's program areas, strengthen relationships with stakeholders, and enhance the efficiency of the organization's operations. Her immediate priorities will likely include continuing the work of growing dairy demand, connecting with consumers, and fostering new opportunities for dairy farmers and importers. The transition is anticipated to be smooth, given O'Brien's confidence in Scott's capabilities and the organization's current momentum. Scott will also serve as President and CEO of the checkoff-founded Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy, indicating a continued emphasis on research and development to support the industry. Stakeholders, including dairy farmers, industry partners, and consumers, will be watching to see how Scott's leadership shapes the future direction and initiatives of the dairy checkoff program.
Beyond the Headlines
The appointment of Corey Scott to lead Dairy Management Inc. underscores a broader trend of experienced industry professionals taking the helm of agricultural organizations. Her background, particularly her extensive experience with Land O'Lakes, a major farmer-owned cooperative, suggests a deep understanding of the cooperative model and the challenges faced by agricultural producers. This leadership change could influence the strategic direction of dairy promotion, potentially leading to new marketing campaigns, product innovations, or partnerships designed to appeal to a diverse consumer base. The emphasis on strengthening consumer trust and creating opportunities for the next generation of farmers highlights the long-term vision for the dairy industry, addressing issues such as sustainability, animal welfare, and the economic viability of farming. Scott's leadership will be crucial in navigating these complex issues, ensuring the continued relevance and growth of the U.S. dairy sector in a rapidly changing food landscape.
