Lance Sommer

• Developed and executed strategic plans to support the vision of the organization.
• Reviewed budgets and approved resources for association programs and operations.
• Managed crisis situations, implementing contingency plans to minimize impact on operations.
• Oversaw public relations messaging for Indiana dairy advocacy initiatives.

Sommer Farms Inc.

June 2006 to October 2026

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Directed overall farm operations by aligning crop planning, labor allocation, and equipment use with seasonal demands, maintaining productivity, quality standards, and compliance with agricultural regulations and company policies.

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Managed annual budgeting and day-to-day cost control for seed, feed, fertilizer, labor, and maintenance, supporting sustainable, profitable farm performance through expense monitoring and purchasing adjustments.

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Led hiring, training, and supervision of farm staff by assigning daily tasks, monitoring work quality and safety practices, and providing coaching that improved efficiency, reliability, and procedural adherence.

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Coordinated planting, cultivation, and harvest schedules with suppliers, transporters, and buyers, organizing logistics to minimize delays, protect product quality, and meet customer and contract delivery expectations.

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Oversaw upkeep of fields, facilities, and machinery by prioritizing preventive maintenance, arranging repairs, and implementing safe operating procedures to reduce downtime and extend farm asset life.

Directed daily dairy farm operations by coordinating herd management, crop production, and facility upkeep to maintain consistent milk quality, animal health, and reliable supply for customers and processing partners.

Managed scheduling and supervision of farm staff by assigning milking, feeding, cleaning, and equipment operation tasks, training new hires, and promoting safe, efficient work practices.

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Oversaw herd care routines by monitoring animal condition, coordinating veterinary visits, and implementing feeding and housing practices that supported herd productivity, welfare, and regulatory compliance.

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Monitored use and basic maintenance of tractors, milking systems, and other farm equipment, arranging repairs and service to minimize downtime and support uninterrupted milking and fieldwork.

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Tracked inventory levels for feed, bedding, and farm supplies by placing vendor orders, organizing deliveries, and adjusting usage to align with seasonal needs and production demands.

• - Elected by peers to represent farm voting decisions and advocate for Dairy Farmers of America business matters.
• - Traveled to Columbus, Ohio, quarterly to collaborate with peers, address cooperative issues, and cast decisive votes on critical matters.
• - Traveled to Kansas City, Missouri, annually to evaluate bylaws and vote on impactful changes for the farm and Dairy Farmers of America cooperative.