The National Turkey Federation has announced John Zimmerman as the newly elected chairman for 2024, as disclosed in a recent news release from the trade association.
Zimmerman’s appointment to this pivotal role was made public during the 2024 annual convention held in Austin, Texas. The decision came following his election by the National Turkey Federation’s board of directors.
Expressing his gratitude upon assuming the position, Zimmerman, a second-generation turkey farmer with 35 years of experience in the industry, emphasized the significance of the Federation’s work and conveyed his honor in serving as its chairman.
Notably, Zimmerman hails from a turkey farming background and currently operates a farm near Northfield, where he actively raises turkeys. His extensive involvement in the sector also extends to his role as the board chair for the River Country Co-op and his past tenure as the president of the Minnesota Turkey Growers Association.
As part of the leadership transition, Steve Lykken, formerly serving as chairman and representing Jennie-O Turkey Store in Willmar, will now assume the role of immediate past chairman, bringing his wealth of experience to support the Federation’s ongoing initiatives.
Joining Zimmerman in key leadership positions are Jay Jandrain of Butterball LLC, elected as the vice chairman, and Thierry Murad of AJC International, who assumes the role of secretary-treasurer.
The National Turkey Federation stands as a staunch advocate for the American turkey industry, representing the interests of its members, who collectively contribute to over 95% of turkey production in the nation.
