Heather DeLong Announced as New Business Manager

We are back to a full team! The Minnesota Beef Council would like to introduce to you our new Business Manager - Heather Delong! We are thrilled about her background in the beef industry, passion for agriculture, and experience working in administration. If you see her around, please give her a warm welcome!

The Minnesota Beef Council has hired Heather DeLong to serve as the new Business Manager. In this role, DeLong will be responsible for administrative and bookkeeping duties, including the maintenance of the checkoff program system.

Previously, Heather worked for the National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA) and has a wide breadth of knowledge about the beef industry being raised on a small cow/calf operation in California. DeLong spent much of her life involved in 4-H, FFA, CowBelles/Cattlewomen, and local Cattlemen's Associations.

Most recently, DeLong worked as a school administrator in the Orono school district. She will be able to utilize her knowledge and experience in office management, bookkeeping, and customer relations for this position.

"I was not looking to change careers when I stumbled across the 'Now Hiring' sign in the MBC yard but when I saw it, I knew I had to reach out and apply!" Delong said. "I have always been looking forward to getting back into agriculture and what better opportunity than this one at the Minnesota Beef Council. I have spent a lifetime promoting, advocating for, and defending farming and ranching - especially the beef industry - so this opportunity to work at the Council furthers my affirmation of a vital industry I can share with others! Neighbors, co-workers, friends and family alike, regardless of where I have lived, have always known where I stand on 'Beef. It's What's For Dinner.' It's nice to be back home!"

"We are very excited to have Heather join the team at the Minnesota Beef Council," Kelly Schmidt, Chief Executive Officer of MBC added. "Her previous work experience, background, and positive energy has given her a professional skillset that will be an asset to our organization."

Heather has lived in five different states, carrying her passion of farming and ranching with her to each one. "I bring to the MN Beef Council (and MSCA) table(s) a sincere love of agriculture and all it has to offer," noted DeLong. "I cannot wait to get my hands dirty so-to-speak and meet the men, women, and families that feed Minnesota, America, and the world! Hats off to you!"

DeLong resides with her family of six in Maple Plain, Minnesota, with her husband, two children, and two dogs. Her first day on staff with the Council was December 13. She can be reached at [email protected] or (763) 479-1011.