Chad Hertz is a third-generation family business leader and CEO of Hertz Farm Management, an 80-year-old agricultural services firm managing over 674,000 acres across five states. Over a 30-year career, Hertz has built expertise as a professional farm manager, advisor, and technology coordinator, transitioning to chief operating officer before becoming CEO in 2024. This progression reflects intentional leadership development and governance design.

As COO, Hertz implemented an independent board in 2018, formalized shareholder agreements, and modernized enterprise systems while stewarding company culture through transformation.

An accredited farm manager, Hertz holds degrees from the University of Illinois and is active in the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers (ASFMRA) leadership, conservation initiatives, and talent development efforts. His journey demonstrates how family enterprises work effectively when clear governance structures and thoughtful leadership development support authentic operational execution across generations.