Eric Heismeyer, a veteran agribusiness leader, is the new chief executive officer of Landus, Iowa’s largest farmer-owned cooperative announced Tuesday, Sept. 2.
Mr. Heismeyer’s appointment, which is effective today, Sept. 3, more than two months after the Des Moines-based grain and agronomy co-op launched a nationwide search.
Mr. Heismeyer succeeds Matt Carstens, who stepped down as president and CEO in April after a five-year tenure.
Sam Caton, the cooperative’s executive vice president of sales, has served as the interim CEO and helped guide the CEO search along with Medallion Partners. Since April, the board and Mr. Caton have been meeting with farmer-owners and employees for input into the next CEO’s qualities.
The Landus Board of Directors engaged the global organizational strategy, executive search, and leadership development firm to perform the national search.
In its news release Tuesday, Landus said Mr. Heismeyer brings a wealth of experience from some of the world’s most respected agribusinesses, including Bunge and ADM (Archer Daniels Midland), where he held senior leadership roles in operations, commercial strategy, and global supply chains.
He is known for building high-performing teams, strengthening core businesses, and delivering disciplined growth through innovation in competitive markets.
His appointment, the release said, reaffirms Landus’ and its board of directors’ commitment to finding a forward-thinking, proven leader who understands the key role cooperatives play in supporting Iowa farms and rural communities.
“I’m honored to step into this role and eager to lead the team at Landus,” Mr. Heismeyer said in the release. “The board and leadership team have developed a focused, actionable plan to launch into our 2026 fiscal year, and I’m excited to stand shoulder to shoulder with them to drive results that matter for our farmer-owners and communities.”
Accelerating 2026 Plan
Mr. Heismeyer joins Landus as the cooperative launches its 2026 Operating Plan. It is designed to align people, processes, and performance around these five strategic initiatives:
- Serving farmer-owners to get the most out of every acre.
- Enabling employees to be their best.
- Executing with operational rigor across the enterprise.
- Operating with financial discipline to improve performance.
- Driving sustainable, long-term growth.
“Eric is not joining Landus to reset the course, but to accelerate the progress already underway,” said Tim Kolder, board chair. “His experience leading complex agricultural businesses and building cultures of accountability makes him the right leader at the right time for Landus. We’re excited for what’s ahead.”
Mr. Heismeyer’s early focus will be on aligning the organization with the new operating plan and collaborating closely with the core team and board. He sees strong potential for Landus to be not only a reliable partner for farmer-owners, but also a growth platform for prosperity across rural communities.
“Landus is poised to deliver for our farmers – through disciplined execution, consistent service, and a sharp focus on what matters to our farmers,” Mr. Heismeyer added. “Together, we’ll grow a stronger, smarter, more connected cooperative, driving unparalleled value and opportunities for those we serve.”
Landus’ $3 billion business touches 34 states and 16 countries. It connects thousands of farmer-owners with the world through grain, agronomy, and distribution, deploying traditional and nontraditional methods fueled by innovation and sustainability.
