The United Soybean Board (USB), representing half a million U.S. soybean farmers, has announced a new management team to advance its mission of creating value through research, education, and promotion investments. Under the leadership of CEO Lucas Lentsch, the new team aims to enhance transparency, efficiency, and accountability within the U.S. Soy ecosystem.
The newly appointed management team includes:
Keenan McRoberts, Ph.D. – Executive Vice President, Strategy: McRoberts will lead USB’s investment strategy team, ensuring high impact and returns on strategic investments across the USB portfolio.
Darryl Chatman – Executive Vice President, Compliance: Chatman will oversee compliance and governance, providing parliamentary and legal guidance. He will also serve as the executive staff liaison to the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service, Foreign Agricultural Service, and Office of the General Counsel.
Sandi Schwarzen, CPA – Executive Vice President, Finance: Schwarzen will manage USB’s financial affairs, including risk management, accounting, financial reporting, budgeting, revenue projections, banking, collections, and auditing.
John Jansen – Senior Vice President, Marketing: Jansen will support USB’s marketing strategy by engaging the soybean value chain and identifying demand opportunities. He will drive soybean oil investments and engagement with consumer packaged goods companies.
Doug Ackerman – Senior Vice President, Reputation & Insights: Ackerman will lead USB’s reputation and insights strategy, including integrated communications. He will advise board members and staff on reputation-related matters and oversee U.S. Soy and soy checkoff brand channels.
Regina Cleary – Vice President, Board Relations & Farmer Outreach: Cleary will manage USB’s board engagement and farmer outreach strategy. She will also oversee internal operations, facilitate office processes, and coordinate logistics for the Board.
All appointments were effective as of June 17, 2024.
