Chief Executive Officer & Farm Successor (CEO)

Location: Kasson, MN
Employment Type: Full-Time, Executive Leadership
Reports To: Family Board, with opportunity to join board

Herbst Family Farms is seeking a visionary and grounded Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead the next era of our multigenerational farm operation in southeastern Minnesota. This is a rare opportunity to join a values-driven team with a deep legacy, strong family culture, and a clear focus on innovation, efficiency, and long-term stewardship. This individual will have the opportunity to gain equity within the farming operation.

About Us

Herbst Family Farms is a progressive row crop and custom hog operation with deep roots in Dodge County, Minnesota. With strong operational infrastructure, a high-performing team, and a family deeply invested in the long game, we are transitioning leadership from the founding generation to a new management structure.

About the Role

The CEO will guide the farm’s operations, people, and financial systems with excellence. This is a hands-on executive leadership position that blends strategic planning, team development, and operational coordination. The CEO will work alongside two next-generation family members, each with deep operational expertise, to drive performance and scale while honoring legacy values.

The role includes oversight of cropping operations, swine coordination, budgeting, staff development, and capital project execution. The CEO will also serve as the primary integrator—connecting fieldwork, office systems, shop logistics, and team communication into one coordinated rhythm.

Transition Timeline

This position is structured to scale over time. While the responsibilities are comprehensive, they will be assumed in phases to support a thoughtful onboarding experience. The timeline will be shaped by the CEO’s adaptability, team trust-building, and operational familiarity.

Who We’re Looking For

We’re seeking a leader with:

• Strong agronomy and production agriculture experience
• Financial fluency—understands budgets, costs, and ROI
• High emotional intelligence—builds trust and gives clear direction
• A heart for people and a "leads by example" leadership style
• Long-term vision with short-term execution
• Deep respect for legacy with the courage to innovate
• High integrity and alignment with family values
• Operational confidence—able to lead from the front when needed

Key Responsibilities

• Lead team scheduling, role clarity, and operational alignment
• Coordinate crop planning, planting, harvest, and livestock cycles
• Oversee budgeting, financial review, and marketing partnerships
• Support capital planning, site development, and equipment strategy
• Manage communication across all departments (shop, field, swine, admin)
• Coach, hire, and develop team members aligned with farm culture
• Represent the farm to external partners, advisors, and vendors

Base Compensation & Benefits

• Base salary between $75,000 and $112,000, depending on experience
• Health, dental, and vision insurance, or a stipend to secure independent coverage
• Life and disability insurance
• Paid time off and flexible scheduling, adapted to seasonal farm demands and personal needs

Ownership Pathway

• The CEO will have the opportunity to earn up to one-third (1/3) equity ownership in the operating assets of the business
  • Earned, not purchased
  • Based on time, performance, and shared leadership
  • Separate from farmland ownership
  • Subject to a 15-year vesting schedule

Non-Financial Benefits & Leadership Flexibility

• Work Vehicle Access:
  A take-home vehicle will not be provided due to the CEO’s proximity to the farm. However, the CEO will have full access to a work vehicle during the workday for all business-related purposes (e.g., hauling, parts, site visits).
• Time & Schedule Autonomy:
  As CEO, the individual will have direct input into their own time off and work schedule, coordinating with the team and adapting to seasonal cycles. This structure reflects HFF’s trust-based, sustainable leadership culture.
• On Farm Housing Available

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter by clickimg APPLY TO THIS POSITION below. Selected candidates will undergo a multi-step interview and onboarding process focused on team fit, leadership skills, and operational understanding.