John Hollay to lead National Council of Agricultural Employers

(Arlington, VA) Joel Anderson, owner of Anderson Immigration Law and chairman of the National Council of Agricultural Employers’ (NCAE) Executive Committee announced today that following an exhaustive national search, the Executive Committee of NCAE has selected John Hollay as the organization’s new President and Chief Executive Officer. He will replace Michael Marsh, the retiring executive who has led NCAE since 2017. Hollay will assume the role on January 1st, 2026.

John joins NCAE after serving in the role of Director, Government Relations, of the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) after serving in the same role with IFPA’s predecessor United Fresh. John previously served as Vice President of Government Relations with National Milk Producers Federation after working on Capitol Hill with Representative Joseph Courtney. Hollay also served on the Board of Directors for NCAE. John is a graduate of the University of Connecticut.

“The Selection Committee faced the daunting task of finding the right candidate to carry the torch following Michael’s leadership – to build on the momentum NCAE has generated; someone to lead the organization forward,” noted Anderson. “The Council’s position attracted a tremendous group of candidates from all over the country. After interviewing a group of top tier candidates, the Selection Committee agreed that John possesses the necessary experience, qualities, and talents to carry NCAE forward. John will help the Council as we continue our mission in agricultural labor, supporting the world’s greatest food producers.”

NCAE Vice Chairman Ryan Ayres, Director of Human Resources for FirstFruits Farms commented, “the Selection Committee recognized that, in order to best orient the Council for success in the future, we need a leader who has a strong reputation, willingness to work collaboratively and ability to communicate effectively the needs of America’s farmers and ranchers to those decisionmakers in Washington, D.C. John fit that bill.”

“I am honored that the Executive Committee selected me to work with the Council,” said Hollay. “We are at an exciting moment for American agriculture with the opportunity for regulatory and legislative reform. Much more is needed so that American farmers and ranchers can stay competitive in markets at home and abroad. I am excited to step into this role and work alongside such a passionate and dedicated agricultural community. Together, we will cultivate a stronger future.”

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