Bongards Executive and Leadership Team

Daryl Larson, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Bongards, directs the overarching strategic vision for the farmer-owned cooperative. Larson manages the alignment between agricultural production and market demand for natural, processed, and imitation dairy products. By overseeing the executive team, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that the cooperative maintains its competitive edge in the food manufacturing sector. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of supply chain efficiencies and long-term growth initiatives. Daryl Larson drives the expansion of product lines while upholding the cooperative values established in 1908. Through rigorous oversight of corporate governance, the President & Chief Executive Officer secures the financial health of the organization. Larson fosters strong relationships with member-owners, ensuring that the cooperative model remains sustainable and profitable in a volatile global food market. Ultimately, the President & Chief Executive Officer guarantees that the company delivers consistent value to customers and stakeholders alike.

Chris Freeman, the Chief Financial Officer at Bongards, manages the fiscal health and capital allocation strategies for the organization. Freeman oversees all financial reporting, budgeting, and risk management processes essential for a large-scale dairy cooperative. By analyzing market trends in whey and butter commodities, the Chief Financial Officer optimizes revenue streams and cost structures. This leadership role requires close collaboration with the Board to ensure transparency and fiscal responsibility. Chris Freeman drives the implementation of financial systems that support the manufacturing operations in Minnesota and beyond. Through precise capital planning, the Chief Financial Officer mitigates economic volatility and supports the cooperative's long-term investment goals. Freeman monitors cash flow and liquidity to ensure that the company maintains its operational agility. Ultimately, the Chief Financial Officer provides the necessary financial framework to sustain the cooperative's growth and market presence while protecting the interests of the farmer-owners.

Justin Larson, the Chief Operating Officer at Bongards, directs the daily manufacturing and production activities across all facilities. Larson manages the complex supply chain for cream cheese, whey, and butter, ensuring that production standards meet rigorous quality benchmarks. By overseeing plant operations and logistics, the Chief Operating Officer optimizes throughput and minimizes waste in the manufacturing process. This leadership role involves coordinating with procurement teams to secure high-quality raw materials from cooperative members. Justin Larson drives the adoption of advanced processing technologies to enhance product consistency and operational efficiency. Through the management of regional distribution networks, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that products reach customers in a timely manner. Larson maintains a focus on safety and compliance within the production environment. Ultimately, the Chief Operating Officer supports the company's mission by ensuring that the manufacturing infrastructure remains robust, scalable, and capable of meeting diverse market demands.

Keith Grove, the President at Bongards, directs the commercial growth and market development initiatives for the cooperative. Grove manages the sales and marketing strategies that position the company's dairy products within the competitive food manufacturing landscape. By overseeing regional business development, the President expands the reach of the brand into new retail and industrial channels. This leadership role involves identifying emerging market opportunities and tailoring product offerings to meet specific customer needs. Keith Grove drives the execution of sales programs that increase market share for natural and processed cheese lines. Through strategic partnerships, the President strengthens the company's presence across North American markets. Grove collaborates with the executive team to ensure that commercial activities align with the cooperative's broader production capabilities. Ultimately, the President secures the company's market position by fostering strong client relationships and driving consistent revenue growth through innovative sales and distribution strategies.