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Darigold, a US-based dairy producer and the processing and marketing arm of the Northwest Dairy Association, has appointed Amy Humphreys as CEO, effective October 1.

Humphreys, who previously served as the company's CFO from 2015 to 2018, returns to Darigold at a pivotal time as the company seeks to enhance its operational efficiency and expand its market presence.

Humphreys succeeds Allan Huttema, who has played a crucial role in steering the company through a transformative period since 2023. Huttema will return to his dairy farm in Idaho as a member-owner of NDA, marking the end of a significant chapter in Darigold's history.

Tim Kuenzi, chairman of Darigold's board, said: “Amy brings a proven track record in leadership with vertically integrated food businesses like Darigold, and a keen focus on business performance, responsible and sustainable resource management, value expansion and business transformation”.

Kuenzi deemed these skills essential as Darigold embarks on its modernisation efforts, particularly with the recent opening of a new production facility in Pasco, Washington.

With a robust background in the food manufacturing and energy sectors, Humphreys is well-positioned to lead Darigold into its next phase of growth. Her experience includes holding executive roles in various industries, and she currently serves on the boards of both private and publicly held companies.

Additionally, she is a member of the Economic Advisory Council for the Federal Reserve Board 12th District and the Nominating Committee for CoBank, which provides financial services to agricultural businesses.

Humphreys holds an MBA from the University of Washington Foster School of Business and a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting and Finance from Puget Sound University. She is also a Certified Public Accountant in Washington State.

As Darigold continues to capitalise on its new Pasco facility, which is the largest dairy processing plant in the Northwest, Humphreys’ leadership will be instrumental in driving efficiencies and exploring new growth opportunities.

Kuenzi remarked: “Allan stepped in at a critical time, and we made significant progress under his leadership – standing up Pasco, improving operations, and strengthening our already capable leadership team. I know I speak for our full board in wishing him well as he returns to his life as a dairyman and in welcoming Amy back to the Darigold team.”

Headquartered in Seattle, Darigold processes around 10 billion pounds of milk annually and offers a comprehensive range of dairy products for retail, foodservice, commodity and speciality markets.

With 12 production facilities across the Northwest and additional offices in Boise, Idaho, and global locations in Mexico and Asia, Darigold remains a key player in the US dairy industry.