Des Moines - The Agribusiness Association of Iowa (AAI) announced today that Julie Kenney has been hired as the new Chief Executive Officer. Kenney will start her new role on September 1.

“Once again AAI has hired a highly qualified, well-connected CEO,” said AAI Board of Directors Chair Mark White of Smith Fertilizer and Grain. “Julie Kenney brings a large amount of agricultural experience to our organization. She is a proven leader with a reputation for getting things done. The board of directors look forward to working with Julie in the years to come.”

A native of Lohrville, Iowa, Kenney will lead the organization whose members make up the complete business network that empowers agriculture in Iowa. Kenney’s new role will leverage her past experience and connections to all aspects of agribusiness as she leads the nation’s largest state agribusiness association.

“AAI has a strong foundation of promoting opportunities and addressing challenges facing the industry,” said Kenney. “I’m excited to work with leading businesses and organizations to help build a strong future for agricultural business in this state.”

Prior to joining AAI, Kenney has been active in the agribusiness industry for more than 20 years, including five years as Deputy Secretary of Agriculture for Iowa. Kenney also has served in numerous marketing and communications roles for private industry, agricultural associations, and checkoff programs. Kenney and her family own and operate a corn and soybean farm in Story County.

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