ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI, U.S. — The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) said on March 13 that Chief Executive Officer Rick Tolman will retire at the end of September.

Tolman joined NCGA in 2000, and has had a 37-year career in agriculture. He was previously executive director for the U.S. Grains Council. In addition, Tolman has served as marketing planning manager for the Advanced Harvesting Systems Group at International Harvester Company, market research analyst for the Gehl Company and a graduate research assistant at Purdue University.

“Rick has been a tireless advocate for corn farmers and our organization,” said Martin Barbre, NCGA president. “However, Rick told us — as much as he loves representing our way of life — he is ready to enjoy more time with his wife Linda, their five children and eight grandchildren, and other pursuits.

“As we look forward to the next chapter in professional association management, I want to assure NCGA members, affiliated state organizations and other stakeholders that NCGA has a sound, methodical process and plan in place for an orderly CEO succession.”

Barbre said he will be announcing members of a CEO search committee.