New CEO to Guide Dairy Management Inc into Its Next Chapter
Dairy Management Inc. (DMI) has announced the appointment of Corey Scott as its new president and chief executive officer following a nationwide search for the organization's next leader.
Scott will become only the third president and CEO in DMI's history. She succeeds Barbara O'Brien, who plans to retire after the 2026 Joint Annual Meeting of the National Dairy Promotion and Research Board, National Milk Producers Federation and United Dairy Industry Association in October.
The leadership transition follows a lengthy succession planning process led by the DMI Board of Directors. The board sought a candidate with the experience and vision needed to strengthen dairy sales, build consumer trust, and create long-term value for the farmers and importers who support the dairy checkoff program.
“We are so excited for the next phase of DMI where Corey will focus on our program areas, strengthen our relationships and bring efficiencies to the incredible work that Barb O’Brien advanced during the past five years,” said Marilyn Hershey, a Pennsylvania dairy farmer and chair of the DMI Board of Directors.
She added, “Corey will bring a positive and effective energy to the federation and will continue the amazing work that is implemented for dairy farmers and importers across the country. The search committee unanimously brought her forward, knowing her leadership skills, industry knowledge and humble service will carry us to the next level and secure strong opportunities for the future of dairy.”
As president and CEO, Scott will oversee more than 150 employees working across Dairy Management Inc. and the National Dairy Council. She will also serve as president and CEO of the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy, a checkoff-founded organization focused on advancing innovation and sustainability in the dairy sector.
Scott brings extensive experience to the role. Most recently, she served as president and CEO of Midwest Dairy, where she led dairy checkoff activities across a 10-state region. In that position, she worked with thousands of dairy farm families while helping connect consumers with dairy products and industry initiatives.
Before joining Midwest Dairy, Scott served as vice president of sales and marketing for Athian. She also spent more than 15 years in leadership positions with Land O'Lakes, gaining experience in marketing, business development, and industry relations.
Her educational background includes a bachelor's degree in agricultural business from the University of Minnesota as well as an executive MBA from the university's Carlson School of Management.
“America's dairy farmers have built one of the most respected and successful checkoff organizations in agriculture, and I am honored by the opportunity to serve them,” said Scott.
She added, “The work of the dairy checkoff remains critical to growing dairy demand, connecting with today’s consumers and creating new opportunities for the next generation of farmers and importers. I look forward to working alongside the board of directors, our DMI team, state and regional checkoff organizations and our many partners to continue delivering results.”
The transition comes at an important time for the dairy industry as organizations continue focusing on consumer outreach, innovation, and market growth. DMI plays a central role in these efforts by investing in research, education, promotion, and partnerships that help strengthen demand for dairy products.
Outgoing CEO Barbara O'Brien leaves the organization after a 25-year career with DMI. She has served as president and CEO since 2021 and helped guide the organization through a period of strategic growth and collaboration.
During her leadership, DMI strengthened coordination across dairy checkoff programs, expanded innovation initiatives, and advanced efforts designed to increase dairy sales while building stronger relationships with consumers.
“Serving dairy farmers has been the privilege of my career,” said O'Brien. “I have every confidence that Corey and our outstanding DMI team will continue advancing the work of the dairy checkoff while remaining focused on the farmers and importers who make it all possible. The strategy and leadership are strong, and the future of the dairy checkoff is bright.”
The appointment marks a new chapter for Dairy Management Inc. as it continues its mission of supporting the U.S. dairy industry. With extensive leadership experience and a strong background in dairy promotion and business development, Scott is expected to build on the organization's existing momentum and help guide future initiatives.
As the dairy sector faces changing consumer preferences and new market opportunities, DMI's leadership transition aims to ensure the organization remains focused on innovation, industry growth and delivering value to dairy producers nationwide. Through collaboration with farmers, processors, retailers, and industry partners, Scott will help shape the next phase of dairy checkoff programs and strengthen the position of dairy within the agricultural economy.
Photo Credit: Dairy Management Inc.