AgFirst Farm Credit Bank Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

AgFirst Farm Credit Bank has 9 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, technology, human resources, marketing, and administrative analysis.

Committed to agricultural prosperity, AgFirst Farm Credit Bank delivers essential financial solutions to farmers while fostering long-term growth through specialized lending, educational resources, and property mortgage services.

Leadership Roles at AgFirst Farm Credit Bank

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Marion Harris
  • Chief Operating Officer - Deandrea Barber
  • Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer - Charl Butler
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer - Brian Runkle
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Information Officer - Michael Lehmbeck
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer - Sharmequa Franklin
  • Executive VP & Chief Marketing Officer - Juan Silvera
  • Chief of Staff & Transformation & Analysis Director, Solution - Thomas Boharsik
  • Executive VP & Chief Administrative Officer - Jamie Bumgarner
  • Marion Harris - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Marion Harris, the President & Chief Executive Officer at AgFirst Farm Credit Bank, directs the overarching strategic vision for this agricultural lending institution. Harris oversees the alignment of financial products with the evolving needs of farmers across the United States. By managing relationships with the Board and regional associations, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures consistent capital availability for agricultural operations and property upgrades. This leadership role involves navigating complex financial markets to maintain institutional stability. Through rigorous oversight of lending portfolios, Marion Harris drives the organization toward sustainable growth. The President & Chief Executive Officer prioritizes the expansion of educational programs for new farmers, ensuring the next generation possesses the tools for success. Ultimately, Harris secures the financial health of the bank while reinforcing the commitment to rural communities and the broader agricultural sector.
    Marion Harris

    Deandrea Barber - Chief Operating Officer

    Deandrea Barber, the Chief Operating Officer at AgFirst Farm Credit Bank, manages the internal workflows and operational efficiency of the lending organization. Barber executes strategies to streamline loan processing and mortgage administration for agricultural clients. Overseeing the daily execution of business processes, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that internal systems support the rapid delivery of financial services to farmers. This role requires constant coordination with department heads to optimize resource allocation and service delivery. By refining operational protocols, Deandrea Barber enhances the speed and accuracy of credit assessments. The Chief Operating Officer maintains a focus on scaling internal infrastructure to meet the increasing demand for agricultural financing. Through meticulous attention to detail and process improvement, Barber supports the bank's mission of providing reliable financial support to the agricultural community while maintaining high standards of operational excellence.

    Charl Butler - Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer

    Charl Butler, the Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer at AgFirst Farm Credit Bank, manages the supply chain and logistics of financial service delivery. Butler directs the optimization of credit distribution channels to ensure farmers receive timely access to capital. Overseeing the regional service networks, the Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer ensures that the bank's lending products are accessible across diverse agricultural markets. This role involves managing the physical and digital distribution of financial resources to maximize reach and impact. By refining the logistics of loan disbursement, Charl Butler enhances the overall efficiency of the bank's service delivery model. The Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer collaborates with regional teams to address specific market needs and operational challenges. Through strategic management of service distribution, Butler supports the bank's mission of providing essential financial support to farmers and rural businesses.

    Brian Runkle - Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer

    Brian Runkle, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at AgFirst Farm Credit Bank, manages the risk assessment and compliance frameworks for the bank's lending operations. Runkle directs the implementation of rigorous credit standards to ensure the stability of the loan portfolio. Overseeing the regulatory compliance and risk management divisions, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer ensures that all financial activities adhere to industry standards and legal requirements. This role involves monitoring market volatility and adjusting lending policies to protect the bank's assets. By maintaining a focus on risk mitigation, Brian Runkle supports the long-term sustainability of the organization's financial services. The Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer collaborates with the Board to ensure that operational risks are identified and managed effectively. Through disciplined oversight, Runkle ensures the bank remains a reliable source of capital for the agricultural sector.

    Michael Lehmbeck - Executive Vice President & Chief Information Officer

    Michael Lehmbeck, the Executive Vice President & Chief Information Officer at AgFirst Farm Credit Bank, architects the digital infrastructure necessary for modern agricultural lending. Lehmbeck directs the implementation of secure, scalable technology platforms that facilitate loan applications and mortgage management. Overseeing the cybersecurity and data analytics divisions, the Executive Vice President & Chief Information Officer ensures the integrity of sensitive financial information. This leadership role involves integrating advanced software solutions to improve the user experience for farmers and internal staff. By leveraging data-driven insights, Michael Lehmbeck optimizes the bank's digital service offerings. The Executive Vice President & Chief Information Officer collaborates with other C-suite leaders to align technological investments with long-term business objectives. Through the modernization of core banking systems, Lehmbeck drives efficiency and innovation, ensuring the organization remains competitive in the rapidly evolving financial technology landscape.

    Sharmequa Franklin - Executive Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer

    Sharmequa Franklin, the Executive Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer at AgFirst Farm Credit Bank, manages the talent acquisition and organizational development strategies for the institution. Franklin directs initiatives focused on employee engagement, professional training, and leadership development to support the bank's mission. Overseeing the human capital strategy, the Executive Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the workforce possesses the expertise required to serve the agricultural sector effectively. This role involves fostering a culture of excellence and inclusivity across all departments. By implementing robust performance management systems, Sharmequa Franklin aligns individual contributions with the bank's broader financial goals. The Executive Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer collaborates with the executive team to attract top talent capable of navigating the complexities of agricultural finance. Through strategic workforce planning, Franklin strengthens the organization's capacity to deliver superior service to farmers and rural stakeholders.
    Sharmequa Franklin

    Juan Silvera - Executive VP & Chief Marketing Officer

    Juan Silvera, the Executive VP & Chief Marketing Officer at AgFirst Farm Credit Bank, drives the brand strategy and market positioning for the organization. Silvera executes comprehensive marketing campaigns that highlight the bank's lending services, mortgage products, and educational classes for farmers. Overseeing the communication and outreach efforts, the Executive VP & Chief Marketing Officer ensures that the value proposition reaches agricultural communities across the country. This role involves analyzing market trends to identify new opportunities for growth and client acquisition. By crafting targeted messaging, Juan Silvera enhances the visibility of the bank's commitment to rural development. The Executive VP & Chief Marketing Officer collaborates with regional associations to ensure consistent brand messaging and customer engagement. Through strategic market analysis and creative outreach, Silvera strengthens the bank's reputation as a trusted partner for farmers seeking to upgrade or expand their operations.
    Juan Silvera

    Thomas Boharsik - Chief of Staff & Transformation & Analysis Director, Solution

    Thomas Boharsik, the Chief of Staff & Transformation & Analysis Director, Solution at AgFirst Farm Credit Bank, manages the strategic transformation initiatives and analytical frameworks that guide the bank's decision-making. Boharsik directs the evaluation of business solutions to ensure alignment with the organization's long-term goals. Overseeing the analysis of operational performance, the Chief of Staff & Transformation & Analysis Director, Solution identifies areas for improvement and innovation within the lending process. This role involves coordinating cross-functional projects that drive organizational change and efficiency. By providing actionable insights, Thomas Boharsik supports the executive team in navigating complex market challenges. The Chief of Staff & Transformation & Analysis Director, Solution facilitates communication between departments to ensure the successful execution of strategic priorities. Through rigorous analysis and project management, Boharsik ensures the bank remains agile and responsive to the needs of the agricultural community.

    Jamie Bumgarner - Executive VP & Chief Administrative Officer

    Jamie Bumgarner, the Executive VP & Chief Administrative Officer at AgFirst Farm Credit Bank, manages the corporate governance and administrative functions that support the bank's daily operations. Bumgarner directs the facilities management, legal coordination, and administrative support services that keep the organization running smoothly. Overseeing the corporate infrastructure, the Executive VP & Chief Administrative Officer ensures that all administrative processes align with the bank's mission and regulatory obligations. This role involves managing the physical and organizational environment to foster productivity and compliance. By streamlining administrative workflows, Jamie Bumgarner enables other departments to focus on their core lending and financial objectives. The Executive VP & Chief Administrative Officer collaborates with the executive team to ensure that corporate policies are implemented effectively across the organization. Through diligent administrative oversight, Bumgarner supports the bank's commitment to providing stable and reliable financial services to the agricultural community.
    Jamie Bumgarner

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding AgFirst Farm Credit Bank Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads AgFirst Farm Credit Bank?
    AgFirst Farm Credit Bank is led by Marion Harris (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Deandrea Barber (Chief Operating Officer) and Charl Butler (Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of AgFirst Farm Credit Bank’s executive team?
    The executive team of AgFirst Farm Credit Bank includes leaders such as Marion Harris (President & Chief Executive Officer), Deandrea Barber (Chief Operating Officer), Charl Butler (Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does AgFirst Farm Credit Bank have?
    AgFirst Farm Credit Bank has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in AgFirst Farm Credit Bank’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of AgFirst Farm Credit Bank includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Information Officer.