Keystone CEO Kevin Still announces intention to retire

Keystone Cooperative announced that Kevin Still has informed the Board of Directors of his intention to retire as Chief Executive Officer, effective September 1, 2026.

The Board has initiated the search for the next CEO and will consider highly qualified candidates from both within and outside the organization. Until a successor is appointed, Still will continue to lead Keystone, overseeing its strategic direction, profitability, and growth. Once a successor is named, Still will work closely with the new CEO to ensure a smooth and effective leadership transition.

“Leading Keystone Cooperative and its predecessor companies over the past 41 years has been an incredible honor and privilege,” Still said. “Together with a team of exceptional leaders, we’ve built a strong and robust cooperative that I’m proud to have been part of. Now is the right time to look to the next generation of leadership—those who will take bold steps forward on behalf of our farmer-owners. I carry deep appreciation for a career rooted in agriculture and the cooperative spirit, and great hope for what lies ahead.”

Still’s 46-year career culminated in the formation of Keystone Cooperative, a landmark merger between Ceres Solutions and Co-Alliance. Under his visionary leadership, this union created a powerhouse cooperative generating $2.7 billion in annual revenue, serving more than 20,000 farmer-members, and employing over 2,000 full-time team members. Beyond his contributions to the local cooperative system, Mr. Still has also played a pivotal role on the CoBank Board for 23 years, including the last four as board chair. His strategic foresight has redefined what success looks like in today’s Ag & Energy Cooperative landscape.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors and the entire Keystone family, we extend our deepest gratitude to Kevin for an extraordinary career marked by visionary leadership, unwavering dedication, and a profound impact on the growth and resilience of our farmer-owned cooperative,” said Bill Peters, Chairman of the Board. “Kevin’s legacy is one of integrity, innovation, and service to agriculture. As he approaches his well-deserved retirement, we look forward to celebrating his many accomplishments. In the meantime, the Board, Kevin, and Keystone’s leadership team remain fully committed to advancing the company and selecting a successor who can build upon the strong foundation Kevin has established.”

“On a personal note,” Chairman Peters added, “Kevin has been a steadfast advocate for farm families throughout his career. He deeply understands the passion, resilience, and distinct character of the American farmer, and he has worked tirelessly to champion their success.”