The Equity Executive and Leadership Team

July, 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 its members through essential supplies and services, fostering sustainable farming practices and robust community ties across Illinois.

Leadership Roles at The Equity

  • Chief Executive Officer - Armand Lauzon
  • Co-Chief Executive Officer - Jamie Southard
  • Founder & Chief Executive Officer - Amerah Archer
  • 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 framework. Overseeing all business units, Lauzon ensures alignment with the farmer-owned cooperative's mission to provide essential supplies and services. This leadership role involves driving growth and efficiency across farm and residential customer segments. By optimizing resource allocation, Armand Lauzon directly impacts the cooperative's ability to serve its members effectively. Ultimately, Lauzon secures the long-term viability and market responsiveness of The Equity's offerings, maintaining a strong focus on member value and agricultural support within the Effingham, Illinois region.

    Jamie Southard - Co-Chief Executive Officer

    Jamie Southard, the Co-Chief Executive Officer at The Equity, collaborates with the Chief Executive Officer to shape and execute the cooperative's strategic direction. Southard focuses on enhancing the delivery of a comprehensive range of supplies and services tailored to agricultural and residential needs. This dual leadership position involves fostering strong relationships with farmer-owners and ensuring operational excellence. By championing innovation in service delivery, Jamie Southard directly contributes to the cooperative's competitive edge. Southard's leadership ensures The Equity remains a vital resource for its members, supporting sustainable farming practices and community development in Illinois.

    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 guide its long-term vision. Archer's role centers on upholding the cooperative's independent, farmer-owned identity and ensuring its services meet the evolving needs of agricultural and residential customers. This leadership position involves setting the ethical and operational standards that define The Equity's market presence. By maintaining a steadfast commitment to member success, Amerah Archer directly influences the cooperative's enduring impact. Archer's foundational leadership ensures The Equity's continued dedication to supporting the agricultural community in Effingham, Illinois.

    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 accounting, budgeting, and financial reporting functions, ensuring robust fiscal management for the farmer-owned cooperative. This critical role involves optimizing financial resources to support the delivery of essential supplies and services to farm and residential customers. By implementing sound financial controls and driving cost efficiencies, Natasha Lilly directly enhances The Equity's operational sustainability. Lilly's financial acumen secures the cooperative's ability to invest in member value and maintain its strong market position in Illinois.

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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 Jamie Southard (Co-Chief Executive Officer) and Amerah Archer (Founder & 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), Jamie Southard (Co-Chief Executive Officer), Amerah Archer (Founder & 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, Co-Chief Executive Officer, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer.