The Equity Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

The Equity has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, and operations.

Driven by a commitment to agricultural excellence, The Equity empowers farmers and residents with essential supplies and services, fostering community growth and sustainability through its cooperative model.

Leadership Roles at The Equity

  • Chief Executive Officer - Armand Lauzon
  • Founder & Chief Executive Officer - Amerah Archer
  • Co-Chief Executive Officer - Jamie Southard
  • Chief Financial Officer - Natasha Lilly
  • Armand Lauzon - Chief Executive Officer

    Armand Lauzon, the Chief Executive Officer at The Equity, directs the cooperative's overarching strategy and operational execution. Lauzon guides the organization's mission to provide essential supplies and services to farm and residential customers, ensuring alignment with the cooperative's farmer-owned structure. This leadership role involves fostering strong relationships with stakeholders and driving initiatives that enhance member value and operational efficiency across The Equity's Illinois-based operations. Armand Lauzon focuses on sustainable growth and maintaining the cooperative's legacy of service. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities include overseeing market positioning and ensuring the cooperative remains a vital resource for its agricultural community. This involves strategic planning for future expansion and service enhancements.

    Amerah Archer - Founder & Chief Executive Officer

    Amerah Archer, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer at The Equity, established the cooperative's foundational principles and continues to shape its strategic direction. Archer's vision centers on empowering independent farmers through a cooperative model that offers a comprehensive suite of supplies and services. This leadership position involves maintaining the integrity of the cooperative's farmer-owned structure and ensuring its services directly address the evolving needs of the agricultural sector. Amerah Archer's ongoing involvement guides the organization's commitment to community and sustainable farming practices. The Founder & Chief Executive Officer's influence extends to fostering a culture of collaboration and member-centric service throughout the Effingham, Illinois operations.

    Jamie Southard - Co-Chief Executive Officer

    Jamie Southard, the Co-Chief Executive Officer at The Equity, collaborates with other executive leaders to drive the cooperative's strategic objectives and operational performance. Southard's focus involves enhancing the delivery of supplies and services to both farm and residential customers, ensuring the cooperative's continued relevance and success. This leadership capacity includes overseeing key functional areas that support the cooperative's mission of empowering its farmer-owners. Jamie Southard contributes to strategic planning, aiming to optimize resource allocation and expand market reach within Illinois. The Co-Chief Executive Officer's role is critical in maintaining robust operational frameworks and fostering innovation to meet member demands.

    Natasha Lilly - Chief Financial Officer

    Natasha Lilly, the Chief Financial Officer at The Equity, manages the cooperative's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Lilly oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, ensuring the organization's fiscal stability and compliance. This critical role supports the cooperative's mission by optimizing financial resources to enhance the value of supplies and services offered to farm and residential customers. Natasha Lilly's expertise guides investment decisions and risk management strategies, safeguarding the cooperative's assets and promoting sustainable growth. The Chief Financial Officer ensures financial transparency and accountability across all departments, reinforcing The Equity's commitment to its farmer-owners.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding The Equity Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads The Equity?
    The Equity is led by Armand Lauzon (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Amerah Archer (Founder & Chief Executive Officer) and Jamie Southard (Co-Chief Executive Officer).
    Who is part of The Equity’s executive team?
    The executive team of The Equity includes leaders such as Armand Lauzon (Chief Executive Officer), Amerah Archer (Founder & Chief Executive Officer), Jamie Southard (Co-Chief Executive Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does The Equity have?
    The Equity has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in The Equity’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of The Equity includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Co-Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer.