In February, MFA Incorporated announced the planned retirement of Ernie Verslues after 10 years leading the Missouri-based farmer cooperative.
After a five-month search, MFA announces effective Sept. 1, 2025, Bob Huffman will succeed Verslues.
“The MFA Incorporated board of directors appreciates the leadership and direction that Ernie Verslues and the entire MFA executive team have developed to guide the cooperative,” board chairman Don Schlesselman said in a news release. “Bob’s experience and vision will build on that strong foundation, advance MFA’s mission and continue our focus on efficiency and service to members.”
MFA has 45,000 farmer-owners and 150 locations in Missouri and adjacent states.
Huffman joins MFA with more than 20 years of agribusiness experience, most recently as president and CEO at First District Association, a Minnesota-based dairy cooperative, and 12 years at Dairy Farmers of America.
“Along with a deep understanding and belief in agricultural cooperatives, Bob delivers a passion for innovation and a commitment to strong company culture,” Schlesselman said. “He also brings a proven record of performance-driven leadership.”
Huffman added, “I am excited to accept this new role with MFA. I believe in the cooperative model and in the farmers MFA serves. This cooperative has a proud history and a clear mission to deliver value-added products, services, and expertise to its customers. I look forward to working with the team to build on that legacy.”
Verslues is retiring after 38 years with MFA Incorporated, and he’ll continue to work in a strategic advisory role during Huffman’s transition.
