MARLBOROUGH, Mass. — On June 30, 2021, Doug Gillespie, long-time Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation executive director, will hand over the organization’s reins to Brad Mitchell. Gillespie who started with the organization in 1990, has deep roots within the Massachusetts agricultural community and is leaving behind very large shoes for Mitchell to fill.

“I want to thank Doug for his extraordinary service and dedication to our organization,” said MFBF President Mark Amato. “The past 30 years in Massachusetts agriculture have been challenging, especially as he was leading a membership-based organization. We’ve seen farmland in Massachusetts shrink and margins become tight on farms, which has made growing membership very difficult. However, thanks to Doug’s expert leadership, MFBF has continued to flourish, and he is leaving a legacy of calm, patient guidance in the face of challenging times.”

To fill the void, MFBF’s Board of Directors has selected Brad Mitchell to serve as executive director after a nine-month search and interview process. Mitchell has been with the organization for almost 11 years and previously served as the organization’s deputy executive director/legislative agent and has worked for other agricultural groups, including the Massachusetts Department of Agriculture.

As executive director, Mitchell will be responsible for carrying out the strategic plan as adopted by membership a few years ago. He will be placing emphasis on expanding the organization’s membership base and revenue sources.

“The strategic plan is a roadmap for the MFBF’s board of directors and its executive director and will assist in making this a smooth transition,” Amato said. “Brad has a strong understanding of MFBF and is dedicated to our mission and vision. The Board feels he will be a strong successor to Doug.”

Congratulations, Brad! Thank you, Doug!

–Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation

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