Former state legislator Keith Ripp has been hired by the Wisconsin Farm Bureau to serve as its new executive director of governmental relations. The Lodi native manages Ripp Farms LLC, a family-owned crop and dairy heifer operation.
Ripp was first elected to serve Wisconsin's 42nd assembly district in 2008, where he chaired the transportation and consumer protection committees, and was vice-chair of the committee on local government. He was also a member of the assembly's agriculture committee. He stepped down in 2018 to serve as assistant deputy secretary at the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture under the Walker Administration.
"We are pleased to be adding Keith's experience to our team, especially his knowledge on local issues," said WFBF Chief Administrative Officer Kim Pokorny. "He brings a strong voice to our lobbying team and as a farmer will be able to serve our members well at the Capitol."
Ripp is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison Farm and Industry Short Course program. In addition to raising livestock and grain on their family's farm, he and his wife, Lori, own and operate a small trucking business.
Outside of politics, he is a former president of both the Wisconsin Corn Growers Association and Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board. He was also a former president and co-founder of Badger Agvest and Lodi FFA Alumni.
Keith begins his duties on October 18. He will succeed Karen Gefvert, who will take on a new role at the Farm Bureau as innovation and engagement strategist.
Categories: Wisconsin, Business