ELLSWORTH, WIS. — Cheese curds and specialty cheese maker Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery shared that its board of directors appointed Kevin Pieh as the cooperative’s new chief executive officer.

Pieh served as interim CEO beginning in September 2024, prior to officially taking over the position on Dec. 18.

The cooperative of 180 dairy farmer families first brought Pieh on board in 2022, when he was hired as chief financial officer and oversaw fiscal strategy, financial reporting and analysis, treasury management, and capital allocation.

Earlier in his career, Pieh took on leadership roles at Land O’Lakes, after working in the financial services industry. He earned a master’s degree from the University of Minnesota and a bachelor’s degree at Bethel University.

Ellsworth Creamery board chair Warren Johnson said the cooperative will “greatly benefit” from Pieh’s experience.

“He has proven to have strong financial and management acumen during his tenure as CFO and is well-positioned to step into the CEO role,” Johnson said. “The board is excited for the continual growth trajectory of the cooperative with Kevin’s leadership.”

Pieh said he looks forward to further connecting with Ellsworth Creamery’s patrons, employees and customers.

“Ellsworth Creamery is an incredible organization with a bright future and potential for strong growth,” the new CEO said. “I’m excited to represent our farmer owners and lead our outstanding team of employees.”