Bongards Executive and Leadership Team

Mika Mooti, the Chief Executive Officer at Bongards, directs the overarching corporate strategy for this farmer-owned cooperative. By aligning production capabilities with market demand for natural and processed cheese, Mooti ensures the long-term viability of the cooperative model. The Chief Executive Officer manages high-level relationships with dairy producers across the Midwest, securing a consistent supply chain for cream cheese and butter manufacturing. Through rigorous oversight of organizational goals, Mooti drives efficiency across all production facilities. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of industry trends to maintain a competitive edge in the food manufacturing sector. Mika Mooti prioritizes sustainable growth and operational excellence, ensuring that the cooperative remains a leader in the dairy industry. By fostering innovation in whey processing, the Chief Executive Officer strengthens the market position of the organization while delivering consistent value to the farmer-owners.

Dennis Thomas, the President and Chief Executive Officer At Bongards Premium Cheese at Bongards, architects the specialized growth strategy for the premium cheese division. Focusing on the expansion of high-margin product lines, Thomas oversees the development of artisanal and specialty cheese offerings that cater to evolving consumer preferences. The President and Chief Executive Officer At Bongards Premium Cheese at Bongards manages the integration of advanced manufacturing technologies to enhance product quality and consistency. By coordinating with the broader executive team, Thomas ensures that premium product initiatives align with the overall cooperative mission. This role involves navigating complex regulatory environments and maintaining strict quality control standards across all premium production lines. Dennis Thomas drives market penetration in the specialty food segment, leveraging the cooperative's heritage to build brand loyalty. Through strategic investment in processing capabilities, the President and Chief Executive Officer At Bongards Premium Cheese at Bongards secures a dominant position in the premium dairy market.

Daryl Larson, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Bongards, directs the enterprise-wide vision and long-term planning for the cooperative. Overseeing the strategic direction of the entire organization, Larson ensures that all business units remain focused on the core mission of providing high-quality dairy products. The President & Chief Executive Officer manages the interface between the board of directors and the operational leadership team, facilitating clear communication and goal alignment. By analyzing macro-economic factors affecting the dairy industry, Larson identifies opportunities for diversification and market expansion. This leadership role involves balancing the needs of farmer-owners with the requirements of large-scale food manufacturing. Daryl Larson drives initiatives that improve operational efficiency and product innovation, ensuring the cooperative remains resilient in a volatile market. Through disciplined management, the President & Chief Executive Officer sustains the financial health and competitive standing of the organization within the national food supply chain.

Chris Freeman, the Chief Financial Officer at Bongards, directs the financial planning, reporting, and capital allocation strategies for the cooperative. By managing the balance sheet and overseeing investment in new processing technology, Freeman ensures the financial stability required for long-term growth. The Chief Financial Officer monitors cash flow and profitability metrics across all product lines, including cream cheese and whey derivatives. This role involves collaborating with the board to establish fiscal policies that protect the interests of farmer-owners. Chris Freeman drives cost-management initiatives that improve margins without compromising product quality. By analyzing market data and financial performance, the Chief Financial Officer provides the insights necessary for strategic decision-making at the executive level. Through prudent financial stewardship, Freeman secures the resources needed to support the cooperative's expansion efforts and operational upgrades, ensuring that the organization remains a financially robust player in the competitive dairy manufacturing landscape.

Justin Larson, the Chief Operating Officer at Bongards, directs the daily manufacturing and logistics operations across all production facilities. By optimizing the supply chain for whey and butter production, Larson ensures that the cooperative meets high-volume demand with precision and speed. The Chief Operating Officer manages the technical infrastructure and plant maintenance programs, reducing downtime and increasing output efficiency. This role involves coordinating with procurement teams to manage raw material inputs while maintaining strict safety and quality standards. Justin Larson drives continuous improvement initiatives that streamline production workflows and reduce waste throughout the manufacturing process. By overseeing the logistics network, the Chief Operating Officer ensures timely delivery of products to regional and national distribution partners. Through rigorous operational oversight, Larson maintains the high standards of quality that define the cooperative's reputation in the food manufacturing industry, ultimately supporting the organization's commitment to operational excellence and reliable product availability.

Scott Tomes, the Chief Revenue Officer & Board Member at Bongards, directs the commercial strategy and sales growth initiatives for the organization. By overseeing the expansion of market reach into new retail and food service channels, Tomes drives revenue generation for the cooperative's diverse product portfolio. The Chief Revenue Officer & Board Member manages relationships with key national accounts, ensuring that the cooperative's cheese and butter products maintain strong shelf presence. This role involves integrating sales data with production planning to maximize market share and profitability. Scott Tomes drives the development of pricing strategies that reflect the value of the cooperative's high-quality dairy offerings. By serving on the board, the Chief Revenue Officer & Board Member provides critical commercial perspectives that inform the overall governance and strategic direction of the organization. Through targeted sales efforts, Tomes secures long-term partnerships that support the cooperative's growth objectives and market impact.