With roles at both MFB and his family farm, Eric Hodel works in two industries associated with feeding people. This helps make Eric uniquely qualified to serve as Midwest Food Bank’s CEO beginning January 1, 2022. David Kieser, MFB’s current CEO, will remain the President of the MFB Board of Directors.
Eric joined Midwest Food Bank in April 2017, after 20 years of service at Caterpillar, Inc. There, he worked in Engineering, Marketing, and Product Management. For nearly five years, Eric has had the opportunity to work alongside David. David’s humble leadership has brought MFB from its unassuming start on his family farm to the international organization it is today. His mentoring of Eric has set Midwest Food Bank up for continued success.
“Eric’s leadership and strategic planning have strengthened Midwest Food Bank,” says Kieser. “I am pleased and confident he will continue advancing the MFB mission.”
Since Eric began at Midwest Food Bank, the annual food distribution total has increased from $150 million to over $380 million. New MFB divisions opened in Haiti, Texas, Pennsylvania, and New England during that time. This increased the number of nonprofit partner agencies from 1,400 to over 2,000.
“It’s humbling to care for the people and mission of Midwest Food Bank,” says Hodel. “I look forward to stewarding the positive culture of MFB while keeping a focus on sustainable growth.”
Eric lives in Metamora with his wife, Gina, and three children: Ethan, Kara, And Ty.
Midwest Food Bank thanks David for his years of service, and welcomes Eric to this hew role.
Learn more about David’s co-founding of Midwest Food Bank.
Learn more about Eric’s career story.
