2024 E.P. Garrett Manager of the Year: Keith Griffin
News
Agriculture is a unique mix of tradition and innovation. It is in that world where leaders like Madison County Cooperative General Manager Keith Griffin shine brightly. Griffin recently received the prestigious 2024 E.P. Garrett Manager of the Year Award and was recognized at Alabama Farmers Cooperative’s 88th Annual Membership Meeting. “I’m just grateful to have had the opportunity to work in this position,” said Griffin. “We started out at a low point, and with the support of the Board, employees and customers, every year has been successful. Sometimes I have to pinch myself I feel so proud.”
After receiving his master’s degree at Auburn University, Griffin’s journey in the agricultural industry began at B&W Quality Growers, where he managed commercial watercress production operations for seven years. He then set out to find new opportunities. “I didn’t have much experience in sales, but I promised in my interview to be honest, fair and hardworking. I guess they bought it,” he laughed.
Humor is a big part of Griffin’s personality and leadership style. This approach has helped cultivate a positive work environment where employees feel at home, valued and motivated.
“I’m an introvert, but I’ve learned to get out of that comfort zone and engage more and be approachable. I think it makes us more of a team, more of a family. I know it sounds cheesy, but it’s real,” added Griffin.
Twenty-seven years later, he has stuck to his promises to be an award-winning leader who credits his team completely for the prestigious title. “I was shocked, but I was happy for our team at the Co-op because I know they worked really hard, and it’s always good to be recognized,” Griffin said.
“I can’t think of a better Manager of the Year than Keith Griffin,” said Jamie Vann, Madison County Cooperative-Meridianville Assistant Manager. “Sitting beside him at the table when his name was announced, I was proud to be working for him. When I congratulated him, he told me, ‘WE DID IT!’ which says it all.”
Vann began working with Griffin while in the Future Leaders Program over 20 years ago and knows Griffin to be a man of faith, integrity, honesty and humility. “When he speaks, everyone listens. He promotes a family work environment and he understands it takes all the employees for Madison County Co-op to be successful,” said Jamie Vann.
During the awards ceremony, AFC President and CEO Rivers Myres spoke to Griffin’s strong leadership of always being willing to learn and grow. “He runs a Co-op in probably the most competitive area for employees that we have in the state of Alabama, and he has on his executive team the lowest turnover,” said Myres. “That speaks for itself, and we’re proud to have Keith on our team.”
Over his nearly three-decade tenure, Griffin has witnessed significant changes in the Co-op system. His locations specialize in different areas of agriculture– one location focused solely on agronomy, one location focused on irrigation and grain bin sales and two retail stores.
To stay relevant in the market, change must happen, – a fact Griffin recognizes. Recently, Madison County Cooperative has embarked on a new venture into landscaping materials – a strategic move to diversify and adapt to urban growth. “It’s not the best time in agriculture, but we’re leveraging our products for sustainability,” Keith explains.
With an eye on the future through adaptability and growth, Griffin’s goal for the stores remains the same as it was on his first day – service excellence. This approach has earned the Co-op a reputation for reliability and trustworthiness, fostering customer loyalty.
“The employees here at Madison County Co-op believe in the goal and the direction we’re headed, providing the best service we can, not trying to cut corners and give the customer what they expect and deserve,” explained Griffin.
“The employees here at Madison County Co-op believe in the goal and the direction we’re headed, providing the best service we can, not trying to cut corners and give the customer what they expect and deserve,” explained Griffin.
A career that started managing watercress farms to leading a successful Co-op in Northeast Alabama is a testament to the impact of teamwork, adaptability and visionary thinking. As Griffin’s locations continue to evolve, his legacy of leadership will undoubtedly inspire future generations in agriculture.