Maola Local Dairies Names Roddy Purser as Interim CEO 

The Board of Directors of Maryland & Virginia Milk Producers Cooperative Association has appointed Roddy Purser to serve as Interim Chief Executive Officer while the Board conducts a search for its next permanent CEO. The announcement comes as Jon Cowell has stepped down as CEO effective August 18.

“We are grateful for Jon’s leadership and contributions during his tenure and wish him well in the future,” said Board President Kevin Satterwhite. “Our cooperative remains well-positioned for the future, and we remain focused on delivering value to our member-owners. The Board is confident that Roddy will provide steady leadership and continue advancing our strategic priorities while we undertake a thoughtful succession process.”

Roddy brings extensive experience serving the cooperative and working alongside member farms, employees, and customers throughout the dairy value chain. Roddy is a first-generation farmer who owns and operates a dairy farm in North Carolina. He has served on the cooperative’s Board of Director since 2018 and as Second Vice President since 2022. Roddy is active with numerous agriculture leadership organizations such as The Dairy Alliance, North Carolina Dairy Producer Association, and the North Carolina Dairy Foundation.

“Maola has a century strong foundation built by our members, employees, and customers,” said Roddy Purser, Interim CEO of Maola Local Dairies. “I am honored to serve during this transition and remain focused on supporting our farm families, while building on a foundation of customer service, stewardship, and innovation.”