Janna Fritz recently accepted the position of executive director for the Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee.

In her new role, Fritz (pictured at left) will lead MSPC in its efforts to ensure a healthy and robust soybean industry in Michigan through strategic direction of market development, research priorities, talent development and elevated management of industry programs.

Fritz also will work with the Michigan Soybean Association to build grower programs, membership and legislative advocacy.

Fritz will begin her new responsibilities July 15 after leaving Farm Bureau Insurance, where she has served as manager of crop insurance since April 2018.

Fritz’s more than 15 years of leadership experience in the Michigan and national agricultural industries were critical factors in MSPC’s decision to select her as the organization’s next executive director.

As crop insurance manager and previously as a regional representative for Michigan Farm Bureau, Fritz led significant operational and structural improvements leading to successful growth. She also has developed and maintained working relationships with legislative and regulatory officials.

Fritz also worked as a district sales manager for Monsanto (now Bayer). During this time, she focused on developing and enhancing Monsanto’s brand recognition, as well as building long-term trusting relationships with customers and stakeholders.

Fritz has a bachelor’s degree in agriculture and natural resources communications from Michigan State University, where she graduated with honors. She also has been involved with many agricultural organizations such as the U.S. Grains Council, Michigan Corn Growers Association and Michigan Agri-Business Association.

“The board was impressed with Ms. Fritz’s experience in the agricultural industry, her people management skills and her passion for promoting agriculture and supporting Michigan soybean farmers,” says Laurie Isley, MSPC president.

Fritz is ready to get started in her new position. “I am overjoyed and humbled to have been selected to serve the soybean growers of Michigan,” she says. “MSPC has already built a strong reputation for research and promotion of Michigan soybeans. I am happy to continue in those traditions and to build on them in the future.”

Fritz resides in Bad Axe, Mich., with her husband, Joel, and their two sons Wesley, 13, and Zachary, 10. They operate a 1,500-acre farm raising soybeans, corn, wheat and dry edible beans.

For information about MSPC, call 989-652-3294 or visit michigansoybean.org. 

Source: Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee, which is solely responsible for the information provided and is wholly owned by the source. Informa Business Media and all its subsidiaries are not responsible for any of the content contained in this information asset.