Harrisonburg, Virginia-based organic chicken producer, Farmer Focus, has announced the promotion of Stephen Shepard to the position of CEO. This strategic leadership change comes as the company’s founder, Corwin Heatwole, transitions to chair the newly formed board of managers.
Farmer Focus, previously known as Shenandoah Valley Organic, originated in 2014 and is poised to achieve a remarkable milestone by doubling its revenue by the close of 2024. Central to the company’s ethos is its “Farmer-First” model, which not only ensures growers are compensated above industry standards but also emphasizes complete product traceability and rigorous adherence to animal welfare benchmarks.
Heatwole, speaking on the transition, conveyed his confidence in the strength of the business and the adeptness of the executive team to maintain the current growth trajectory. In his words, “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.”
Heatwole will oversee a committee within the board that will focus on advancing regenerative agriculture and fostering innovation in farming practices.
The newly appointed CEO, Stephen Shepard, who had previously held the roles of President and COO at Farmer Focus, was lauded for his extensive experience in the poultry industry. He is known for his fervor for the business and his demonstrated prowess in driving transformative change.
Expressing his gratitude and commitment, Shepard stated, “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.”
Currently collaborating with 80 farmers and nearly 100 farms, Farmer Focus operates both a chicken processing facility and a packaging unit in Harrisonburg, Virginia. The company’s strategic pivot in leadership aligns with its ongoing mission to champion sustainable agricultural practices and facilitate growth while remaining true to its core values.
