MFA Incorporated Announces New CEO

Columbia, Mo., July 10, 2025 – MFA Incorporated is pleased to announce the appointment of Robert (Bob) Huffman as its new president and chief executive officer, effective Sept. 1, 2025.

Huffman brings more than 20 years of experience in the agriculture industry, including some 12 years with Dairy Farmers of America, where he served as vice president of manufacturing operations – ingredients and consumer retail. Most recently, he has served as president and CEO at First District Association, a dairy cooperative based in Litchfield, Minn. Under his leadership, First District saw notable growth, including the commissioning of a major cheese plant and significant revenue increases.

Huffman succeeds Ernie Verslues, who is retiring after 38 years with MFA Incorporated and 10 years as president and CEO. Verslues will serve in a strategic advisory role during the transition.

“The MFA Incorporated board of directors appreciates the leadership and direction that Ernie Verslues and the entire MFA executive team have developed to guide the cooperative,” said board chairman Don Schlesselman. “Bob’s experience and vision will build on that strong foundation, advance MFA’s mission and continue our focus on efficiency and service to members.” 

“Along with a deep understanding and belief in agricultural cooperatives, Bob delivers a passion for innovation and a commitment to strong company culture,” added Schlesselman. “He also brings a proven record of performance-driven leadership.”

Huffman grew up in southwest Missouri and graduated from Evangel University in Springfield, Mo., with a bachelor’s of science degree in business management. He and his wife, Jennifer, have three children.

"I am excited to accept this new role with MFA,” said Huffman. “I believe in the cooperative model and in the farmers MFA serves. This cooperative has a proud history and a clear mission to deliver value-added products, services, and expertise to its customers. I look forward to working with the team to build on that legacy.”

About MFA Incorporated
MFA Incorporated is a Midwest-based regional farm supply and marketing cooperative serving more than 45,000 farmer-owners in its trade area. Through its network of retail locations and affiliated cooperatives in Missouri and adjacent states, MFA provides value-added products, services and expertise to help farmers succeed.