Corwin Heatwole, founder of Farmer Focus, is transitioning away from his role as CEO of the company to become the chairman of the company’s board of managers. At the same time, Stephen J. Shepard, the company’s president and chief operating officer has been promoted to CEO.
According to a press release, these managerial changes are part of the organic poultry company’s strategic plan and commitment to focus on the future of farming.
The company is also known as Shenandoah Valley Organic (SVO). Farmer Focus is the company’s retail brand.
“Our business is strong and the executive team is well-positioned to sustain the growth trajectory we are on,” Heatwole stated. “My goal has always been to step away from the day-to-day operations and create time and space for casting vision for what comes next – specifically regenerative agriculture and innovation in farming. I believe Farmer Focus is an important voice in this space.”
Commenting on his new role within the company, Shepard said: “I am grateful for the organization Corwin built and the mission that unites our Farmer Focus team. I am humbled to serve as CEO, and I commit to serve, to the best of my ability, our team members, farm partners, customers, and consumers. Our mission remains: Promote and protect generational family farms. I look forward to working with the executive team to grow our business in new channels and categories to allow us to welcome more farmers into our community.”
Farmer Focus Board of Managers member Matt Walker of S2G, the lead investor in the company, is supportive of this evolution in stewardship.
“Corwin’s initial idea for Farmer Focus was a game changer in the poultry space. My fellow board members are excited to see what new horizons Corwin’s visionary talent will create for the company,” said Walker.
“The board has been impressed by the leadership exhibited by Farmer Focus’ President & COO, Stephen J. Shepard. We are confident that in his tenure as CEO, Stephen will lead the business as he leads his life – with conviction, humility, and unparalleled drive.”
Founded in Harrisonburg, Virginia, in 2014, SVO has grown to become the 26th largest poultry producer in the United States, according to data from the WATTPoultry.com Top Poultry Companies Database. During the past year, it processed 2 million pounds of ready-to-cook chicken on a weekly basis.
