Innovative Ag Services Co. Announces New CEO

Jul 28, 2023


On behalf of the Board of Directors, we are excited to welcome and announce Ken Smith as our new GM/CEO. Ken will begin his duties as CEO on October 1, 2023. Ken brings nearly 30 years of increasing responsibility and professional experience in the agriculture industry. He is currently leading Pine Lake risk and merchandising management.   Ken grew up on a farm in North Central Indiana before attending Purdue University, earning both a bachelor's and master’s degree in agriculture economics.  Ken resides in Waverly, IA with his wife Sarah, and two children.

We want to also take this opportunity to thank Rick Vaughan, the current CEO who will stay on to aid in this transition and retire in April of 2024.  Rick began his career with Innovative Ag Services in February 1995. He has a total of 43 years of experience in the Ag Business field.

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