Monroe County man named Michigan Soybean Committee CEO
ST. JOHNS – Ben Steyer of Monroe County has been named the new chief executive officer of the Michigan Soybean Committee, effective Jan. 16.
“I look forward to getting to work and grateful for the opportunity to lead an organization like the Michigan Soybean Committee,” Steyer said. “MSC is well established as an asset to Michigan soybean farmers and agribusiness. I look forward to working with farmers and associates to find ways to continue improving the bottom line for Michigan soybean farmers.” MSC is farmer-led.
“In his new role, Steyer will lead MSC in its efforts to ensure a strong and growing Michigan soybean industry through strategic alignment of market development, research priorities, outreach and improved management of industry programs,” said MSC. “He will also work with the Michigan Soybean Association to build grower programs, membership and legislative advocacy.”
Before joining MSC, Steyer was Managing Director of 1-800-SWEEPER, a cooperative organization made up of independently owned sweepers.
“His work with the organization has included continually developing new ways to bring value to owners and providing strategic leadership to the organization,” said MSC. “Steyer is a forward-thinking leader with extensive experience in designing action plans, optimizing partner relationships and delivering continuous business development. He is a dedicated team leader who is skilled in a variety of roles including team building, marketing and operations management in dynamic, fast-paced environments.” Steyer grew up on a grain farm in Northwest Ohio and earlier in his career worked for a family-owned seed company, which enabled him to develop skills in various aspects of business and agriculture. During his time with the company, he was elected a board member of the Independent Professional Seed Association, which represents independently owned seed companies. On the policy and advocacy front, he has advocated for small businesses in Washington, DC and built relationships with legislators and regulators. He also participated in Syngenta’s Leadership at Its Best program, a leadership development and advocacy training program supported by the American Soybean Association. Steyer holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Tiffin University.
“MSC’s Board of Directors is pleased to welcome Ben Steyer as the new CEO of Michigan Soybean. His desire to provide our farmers with a strong return on investment makes him a great asset to our organization, and his experience leading a cooperative organization will benefit Michigan soybean farmers,” said Laurie Isley, President of MSC. Isley is a soybean farmer in Palmyra. Steyer lives with his wife Whitney and their sons Jackson and Tyson in Monroe County near his in-laws’ corn and soybean farm.
