AMES, Iowa – Iowa Cattlemen’s Association (ICA), the leading grassroots organization supporting Iowa’s beef cattle industry, is pleased to announce Bryan Whaley as their new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective December 4, 2023. Whaley brings many years of experience leading successful teams, serving customers, and a deep-rooted passion for the cattle industry that will be invaluable to the future of the association.

Whaley most recently worked as the Director of Field Operations – North for Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Before that, he was a regional extension education director for more than seven years. He has also worked with youth development in several roles with 4-H Youth Development through Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Upon completing his first college degree, he was a classroom educator. Whaley holds a master’s degree from Iowa State University in agriculture education and a Bachelor of Arts from Simpson College.

The cattle industry is a part of Whaley’s daily life. He and his family own and operate Whaley Cattle in Eagle Grove, Iowa, raising Maine Anjou and Maine Angus seedstock. He has also been involved in many organizations that support the beef cattle industry, including regular membership with ICA, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, and American Maine Anjou Association. Whaley is serving as the current president and board member of the Iowa Maine Anjou Association.

Bryan Whaley

“The search committee is very excited for Bryan to join the ICA staff as the new CEO,” said ICA Board President Bob Noble. “Those on the search committee were impressed with his experience leading teams, working with county committees, and his positive attitude toward the work ahead of ICA. The association has just celebrated 50 years, and Bryan’s energy and optimism will bring a renewed perspective to the association and be the perfect way to move us into our next 50 years.”

The hiring of Whaley comes at no better time as ICA heads into one of the busiest times of the year for the association. This will offer many opportunities for him to get out within the state to meet the Iowa beef cattle producers ICA serves.

“I am honored to have been selected to serve the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association,” said Whaley. “I am excited for the opportunity to serve the members of the association, but also the entire cattle industry in Iowa, and support the efforts nationally to advocate for the policies set forth by our members.”

The ICA Board of Directors and staff look forward to welcoming Bryan Whaley to the team and continuing our mission of serving Iowa’s beef cattle industry now and in the future.