The team is made up of 13 gentlemen who each have a respective region in which they reside and represent the American Angus Association.

In 1938, W.M. “Bill” Barton from Illinois was hired as the first modern fieldman to assist Secretary Tomhave, and this was the beginning of the regional manager program. In 1970 the name field representative was changed to regional manager.

The role of regional manager has evolved through the years. The biggest change came with the purchase of the Angus Journal in 1978. At the time of purchase, the Angus Journal had a team of advertising representatives. Through the late ’70s and early ’80s, the role merged with the regional managers to form the structure we have today. 

The job description varies by region and membership needs. The regional manager can be called upon for a variety of tasks, from planning for a production sale, genetic testing guidance, data submission, registration assistance or helping a commercial producer sign up for AngusLink^SM. They play a vital role with the National Junior Angus Association (NJAA), Angus Foundation and Certified Angus Beef (CAB).

The regional managers represent and promote the Angus breed at several state, regional and national events. They can also be found at production sales, helping commercial producers and members with genetic selection.  

“Regional managers are often called the ‘eyes and ears’ of the organization. Their knowledge of the breed, the Association programs and services, and marketing expertise is an invaluable resource to membership and users of Angus genetics,” says Region 2 regional manager David Gazda, who’s served for more than 35 years. 

Setting you up for success

If you are a new member of the American Angus Association, I would encourage you to reach out to your respective regional manager and form a relationship. Invite them to meet you in person. Their contact information is in the new member packet you receive in the mail when you become a member. The first contact can hopefully set you up for a lifetime relationship and guidance in all things Angus. 

As a new member, the resources the regional manager will provide for you will be invaluable. As with anything new, there will always be a lot of questions. Your regional manager can provide you with answers that will set you up for success.

The regional managers are not just for new members. I encourage engagement with the regional manager team no matter how long you have been in the business. They are a reliable resource, especially with new trends and Association programs along with changes in the industry and marketplace.

At the end of the day, the regional manager team is dedicated to the success of the membership and the Association. The sacrifices of a normal home life are to be respected, but commitment to the breed and the membership never wavers. Regional managers are accessible by phone or email and readily available to advise cattlemen regarding genetic selection tools, marketing options and assist in procurement of quality Angus genetics. 

For more information regarding the American Angus Association’s programs and services and how to contact the regional manager nearest to you, or visit Regional Managers. All their contact information will appear.