From the President:
I’m pleased to report two new additions to our IFB Management Team. Matt Wettersten will become Executive Director (ED) of Marketing and Communications and Ryan Ford will become ED of Field and Member Services. Both positions will report directly to me and will be effective on May 20, 2023. Chris Magnuson and Mike Hodge will retire at the end of May and June respectively.
About the ED of Marketing and Communications role
Matt will be responsible for the news, communications, and marketing functions of our organization. This includes publications, RFD Radio Network, video, media relations, digital media, graphic design, and marketing support for IFB and county Farm Bureaus.
Matt’s news reporting experience, communication skills, and vision have prepared him to direct the news, marketing, and communication programs highly valued by our members. Matt joined IFB in 2019 as IFB’s Video Manager. He previously served as Manager of Publications and Media Relations for GROWMARK.
About the ED of Field and Member Services role
Ryan will be responsible for the membership, youth education and Young Leader programs, the county Farm Bureau Manager and Trainee program, the IAA Annual Meeting, and Illinois Ag in the Classroom.
Ryan’s Farm Bureau experience at the county and state level, coupled with his knowledge and interpersonal skills, makes him well qualified to lead the division. Ryan began his career in the Trainee program in 2000. He was the County Farm Bureau Manager for Washington, Perry and Randolph counties. For the past eight years, he served as the IFB Region 2 Manager.
Please join me in congratulating Matt and Ryan.