The Board of Directors at United Farmers of Alberta Co-operative Limited (“UFA”) has named Fred Thun as UFA’s new President and CEO, effective January 1, 2025.
UFA’s current President and CEO, Scott Bolton, will be retiring from his position on December 31, 2024.
“Under Scott’s leadership, UFA has achieved the strongest financial results in our 115-year history, including the highest cash patronage payout ever in 2024,” says Kevin Hoppins, UFA Board Chair. “Scott’s genuine and humble approach has been instrumental in creating a thriving culture for the UFA team that enabled the delivery of these results.”
Fred Thun joined UFA as Executive Vice President and CFO in 2020. During his time with the co-operative, Fred was instrumental in developing and executing UFA’s strategy and managed an extensive portfolio including banking and capital structure, business development, controllership, credit, facilities, fleet, insurance, internal audit and treasury.
“The Board of Directors conducted a robust evaluation process of high-calibre candidates to ensure UFA is best positioned for success,” says Cindy Bjorklund, Chair of the Leadership Transition Committee. “We are confident that Fred’s dynamic leadership skills, strong agricultural background and experience in all facets of our business position him as the natural choice to lead our co-operative, furthering the great work that has already been accomplished towards UFA’s strategic goals.”
Raised on a mixed farm near Kerrobert, Saskatchewan, Fred has spent most of his career in the agriculture industry and has a strong appreciation for Canadian farmers and the critical role they play in ensuring the stability of the global food supply.
"It's a great time to be at UFA," says Fred Thun. "As incoming President and CEO, I'm excited to add value to our members and customers and to positively impact the communities we serve. UFA's 115-year history provides a strong foundation from which to expand our co-operative's operations and local impact."
Over the next few months, Fred will work closely with Scott to ensure a smooth leadership transition that aligns with UFA’s strategic goals and vision to be recognized as the most trusted and reliable supplier of petroleum, crop, livestock, building products and services in the markets they serve.
About UFA Co-operative
Founded in 1909, UFA is an Alberta-based agricultural co-operative with more than 120,000 member-owners. UFA’s network is comprised of 114 Petroleum locations, 34 Farm & Ranch Supply stores and a support office located in Calgary Alberta. Independent Petroleum Agents and more than 1,100 UFA employees provide products, services and agricultural solutions to farmers, ranchers, members and commercial customers in Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan. For more information, please visit www.UFA.com.
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