Upstate Niagara Cooperative Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Upstate Niagara Cooperative has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to quality dairy production, Upstate Niagara Cooperative upholds a leadership philosophy centered on farmer collaboration and consumer trust, impacting the regional food manufacturing landscape.

Leadership Roles at Upstate Niagara Cooperative

  • Chief Executive Officer - Kevin Ellis
  • Chief Financial Officer - Edward Luongo
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Kelly Wells
  • Chief Human Resource Officer - Louis Santarelli
  • Kevin Ellis - Chief Executive Officer

    Kevin Ellis, the Chief Executive Officer at Upstate Niagara Cooperative, directs the cooperative's overall strategic vision and operational execution. Ellis guides the organization's growth initiatives, ensuring alignment with the core mission of supporting dairy farmers and delivering high-quality products. This leadership role involves fostering strong relationships with member farms and external stakeholders, driving market expansion for brands like Crave. Ellis oversees the integration of sustainable farming practices and manufacturing processes, enhancing the cooperative's competitive edge in the food industry. By championing innovation and operational efficiency, Kevin Ellis secures the long-term viability and prosperity of Upstate Niagara Cooperative, reinforcing its position as a key player in dairy manufacturing.

    Edward Luongo - Chief Financial Officer

    Edward Luongo, the Chief Financial Officer at Upstate Niagara Cooperative, manages all financial operations and fiscal strategy. Luongo oversees budgeting, financial planning, and risk management, ensuring the economic health and stability of the cooperative. This critical function involves optimizing financial performance, managing capital investments, and maintaining transparent financial reporting for member farmers and stakeholders. Edward Luongo drives initiatives to enhance profitability and operational efficiency across all business units, including the manufacturing of Crave products. By providing strategic financial guidance, Luongo supports the cooperative's expansion efforts and its commitment to sustainable growth within the dairy sector. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight ensures robust financial controls and supports long-term value creation for the cooperative's members.

    Kelly Wells - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Kelly Wells, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Upstate Niagara Cooperative, leads all human capital management and organizational development strategies. Wells focuses on cultivating a supportive and productive work environment, attracting and retaining top talent essential for the cooperative's operations. This role encompasses talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits, and implementing HR policies that align with the company's mission and values. Kelly Wells drives initiatives to enhance employee engagement and professional growth, ensuring the workforce is equipped to meet the demands of dairy manufacturing and brand management. By championing a strong organizational culture, Wells contributes to the overall success and sustainability of Upstate Niagara Cooperative, reinforcing its commitment to its people and its farmer-owners.

    Louis Santarelli - Chief Human Resource Officer

    Louis Santarelli, the Chief Human Resource Officer at Upstate Niagara Cooperative, directs comprehensive human resources functions and strategic workforce planning. Santarelli oversees the development and implementation of HR policies, ensuring compliance and fostering a positive employee relations environment across the cooperative's manufacturing and operational sites. This leadership position involves managing talent acquisition, employee development programs, and compensation structures to support the organization's objectives. Louis Santarelli plays a key part in aligning human capital with the cooperative's business goals, particularly in supporting the production and distribution of dairy products like Crave. By focusing on employee well-being and professional advancement, Santarelli strengthens the cooperative's internal capabilities and its commitment to its member farmers and employees.
    Louis Santarelli

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Upstate Niagara Cooperative Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Upstate Niagara Cooperative?
    Upstate Niagara Cooperative is led by Kevin Ellis (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Edward Luongo (Chief Financial Officer) and Kelly Wells (Chief Human Resources Officer).
    Who is part of Upstate Niagara Cooperative’s executive team?
    The executive team of Upstate Niagara Cooperative includes leaders such as Kevin Ellis (Chief Executive Officer), Edward Luongo (Chief Financial Officer), Kelly Wells (Chief Human Resources Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Upstate Niagara Cooperative have?
    Upstate Niagara Cooperative has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Upstate Niagara Cooperative’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Upstate Niagara Cooperative includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer, Chief Human Resource Officer.