In 2025, Shawna Nelson became Organic Valley’s fourth CEO and first female chief executive officer.
Born and raised in the Driftless Area of Wisconsin, where the co-op was founded, Nelson started her career at Organic Valley in 2005 as a human resources intern. She later moved into roles in marketing, sales analysis, recruitment, employee relations, field operations, and dairy pool management.
She most recently served as the executive vice president of membership since October 2023. In this role, she oversaw all farmer touchpoints and pools at the farmer-owned cooperative.
Over the span of almost 20 years, she has advanced from intern to CEO, contributing significantly to Organic Valley’s growth and demonstrating success at every stage. Nelson is committed to continuing Organic Valley’s mission by supporting family farms, delivering high-quality organic food, emphasizing environmental stewardship, and building upon the cooperative’s achievements.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and resides in La Farge, Wisconsin, with her husband Reggie and son Bentley.
