“I am grateful for Gary’s dedicated service as chief operating officer and wish him the very best as he transitions into the next phase of his career. At the same time, I am thrilled to have Chris assume this critical leadership role and look forward to our work together for many more years,” said Matt McClelland, Prairie Farms’ CEO/executive vice president. “Chris’ extensive knowledge, experience, and dedication to 'Do Right' for our farmer-owners, associates, and customers makes him the ideal person for the COO position.”

“When I began my career with Prairie Farms 16 years ago, I had already gained 14 years of dairy experience through our family-owned and operated dairy processing facility. Beyond my 30 years of working in the dairy industry, dairy has always been a part of my life, as I am the third generation of a dairy family. I understand the crucial role of operational excellence in returning value to our hard-working dairy farmers,” said Hackman. “Not only am I honored to accept the COO position, but it is a privilege to work with our extraordinary team of associates. Together, we will lead Prairie Farms to continued growth and operational excellence.”

Hackman’s leadership within the dairy industry is significant. He currently serves on the Missouri State Milk Board Advisory Committee, Missouri Dairy Products Association Board of Directors (board president from 2008-2010), and the All Star Association Board of Directors (board president in 2016). In 2017, he was inducted into the Missouri Dairy Hall of Honors and received the Missouri Dairy Hall of Honors Leadership Award for his outstanding service to the Missouri dairy industry.