The Tennessee Farmers Cooperative (TFC) Board of Directors has appointed John Cain as Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective October 8.

The appointment was announced in a memo from TFC Board Chairman Benjie Daniel sent on behalf of the TFC Board to member Co-op managers, TFC employees, vendors, and other industry partners as he announced the departure of TFC CEO Shannon Huff after more than 37 years of service.

“The TFC Board of Directors would like to thank Shannon for his dedication and the contributions he has made to our cooperative system,” said Daniel. “This decision has been made in an effort to move in a new direction with leadership to support the continued success of TFC and its member cooperatives. On behalf of the board, and the employees of TFC, we wish Shannon the best in all his future endeavors.”

At the time of his appointment, Cain was in his sixth year as TFC Chief Risk Officer. He will serve as Interim CEO during the comprehensive search for new executive leadership.

“John has been an integral asset to the TFC system for nearly 20 years,” Daniel said. “He has been overseeing many of the important service functions provided to members and employees including the risk management insurance programs, employee benefits, human resources, payroll, environmental health & safety, facilities, and security.”

Cain and his wife, Jeannie, reside on a farm in DeKalb County, where they raise beef cattle. The Cains have four children — Amanda, Matthew, Cassie, and William — as well as four grandchildren.

“We have great confidence in John’s leadership and management ability during this transition,” says Daniel. “He is dedicated to keeping TFC successful and providing vision for the future.

“TFC remains committed to serving the needs of its member cooperatives and farmers across Tennessee with the highest degree of dedication and focus that has guided the organization for the past 80 years.”