Ohio Soybean Council and Ohio Soybean Association announce new Executive Director to begin January 2027

The Ohio Soybean Council (OSC) and Ohio Soybean Association (OSA) are pleased to announce Brandon Kern will lead the two organizations as Executive Director beginning Jan. 1, 2027. Kern will take over the role from Kirk Merritt, who earlier this year announced his plans to retire at the end of 2026.

Since 2023, Kern has served as the Deputy Executive Director and Senior Policy Director for the organizations. In his current role, he provides leadership of the staff team, leads key projects, and works to ensure the organization meets its strategic goals and objectives. 

“Brandon was an obvious choice to be our next Executive Director,” said Bennett Musselman, OSA president and Pickaway County soybean farmer. “His combined agricultural and policy background will enable him to lead our organizations through the remarkable change we’re facing in the soybean industry.”

Prior to joining the Ohio Soybean staff, Kern spent nine years at the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation, serving in roles ranging from leading state and national policy efforts to strategic partnership engagement.… Continue reading