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United Dairy Farmers (UDF) has announced the retirement of president and CEO Brad Lindner and the appointment of Michael Ahmed as his successor.

Lindner, who has spent more than 47 years with UDF, including 27 as CEO, said: “This will be a significant shift for us as we transition from being a family-led organisation to one operated by non-owners.”

Founded in 1940, UDF has evolved into a vertically integrated operation and has seen growth over the past decade, highlighted by a $25 million investment in its Norwood, Ohio, ice cream plant, the opening of a new family bakery and the construction of more than 50 stores.

The move marks a major milestone for the 85-year-old company as it transitions to non-family leadership for the first time. Lindner will stay on to support the transition and serve as chairman of the board.

New CEO Michael Ahmed joined UDF from the Gorilla Glue Company, having previously worked in senior leadership roles at Tyson Foods.

“Michael has a strong background in food manufacturing, supply chain distribution and warehousing – key criteria when we began our search,” Lindner continued.

Speaking about his new appointment, Ahmed said: “UDF has been a trusted name for over 85 years, built on family, quality and community. Together we will build on that legacy, growing the brand, expanding our reach and continuing to deliver the homemade quality and customer experience that make UDF special.”