In a pivotal move for the nation's wheat sector, the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) has selected Sam Kieffer as its next Chief Executive Officer, commencing November1. He succeeds Chandler Goule, who departed earlier this year, and inherits the mandate of steering wheat producers through mounting challenges in input costs, global supply chains, and evolving federal policy.

Kieffer steps into the role with substantial advocacy credentials. Since January 2021, he has served as Vice President of Public Policy at the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF)-where he directed lobbying efforts on the farm bill, regulatory frameworks, and commodity support programs. NAWG emphasizes that under his oversight, AFBF pushed strategic initiatives influencing federal legislation and regulatory landscapes across the agricultural sector.

Before his tenure at AFBF, Kieffer devoted 16 years to the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau (PFB), concluding as Chief Administrative Officer. His career roots lie in on-farm experience: raised on a grain and beef cattle operation, he brings firsthand insight into farm economics. He also served in the U.S. Army and the Pennsylvania National Guard, and holds a political science degree, a master's in public administration, and an MBA.

Kieffer commented in NAWG's press release: "I'm honored to join NAWG at such a pivotal time for wheat growers across the country ... I look forward to working alongside NAWG's dedicated members, board and staff to tackle challenges and ensure a bright future for farm families and rural America."

Pat Clements, NAWG President, praised the selection: "Sam Kieffer brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of both the policy landscape and the needs of wheat growers. We're confident farmers will be well served by his thoughtful leadership and strong voice in Washington, D.C., and beyond." Meanwhile, Eric Steiner, who served as interim CEO, is thanked for guiding the organization through the transitional period.

Kieffer inherits a complex arena: wheat growers face tight input cost pressures, volatile commodity prices, and evolving expectations around sustainable agriculture and carbon initiatives. As CEO, he will be tasked with shaping NAWG's legislative strategy, reinforcing crop insurance protections, and engaging with USDA and other federal stakeholders to secure favorable policies in upcoming farm bill negotiations.

His agricultural pedigree, policy acumen, and leadership in major ag advocacy frameworks suggest that Kieffer is well positioned to amplify wheat growers' voices in Washington. The transition comes at a moment when consolidation in supply chains, climate risk, and global competition are placing premium demands on strategic leadership.

NAWG's selection reflects a recognition that wheat producers need representation rooted in both farm experience and institutional policymaking. As Kieffer takes the helm, all eyes will be on how he navigates these intersecting pressures to sustain yields, influence commodity programs, and preserve economic viability for U.S. wheat growers.