CHS Rochester Director: Farm Life & GMC Sierra
- Bryan Lewis, director of operations at CHS Rochester, plays a crucial role in the agricultural supply chain.
- Lewis emphasizes the importance of direct engagement with growers.
- The agricultural calendar dictates the rhythm of Lewis's work.
CHS Rochester Operations Director Discusses His Role in Agriculture
Updated June 22, 2025
Bryan Lewis, director of operations at CHS Rochester, plays a crucial role in the agricultural supply chain. His responsibilities encompass a wide range of activities,from fostering strong relationships with growers to ensuring efficient retail operations. A key aspect of his role involves collaborating with a producer board to guide the company’s vision and operational strategies.
Lewis emphasizes the importance of direct engagement with growers. He actively participates in addressing claims and issues,offering support and demonstrating a commitment to understanding their needs. This hands-on approach extends to crop planning and pricing discussions, where he accompanies agronomists to meet with growers, showing them that their input is valued.
The agricultural calendar dictates the rhythm of Lewis’s work. Planning for the next year’s crop intensifies between Dec. 15 and Jan. 15. This period involves setting up prepaid contracts, allowing growers to secure necessary resources and plan their sales strategies. The planting season, primarily in april and May, demands maximum effort and resources to ensure timely execution.
Following the busy planting season, activity remains steady until August, when things slow down until harvest. Harvest season brings another surge in activity,focused on fertilizer application and crop retrieval. Once harvest concludes, farmers engage in tillage or replant cover crops, transitioning into a winter mode characterized by equipment maintainance and preparations for the upcoming spring.
The director’s role is multifaceted, requiring a blend of interpersonal skills, operational expertise, and a deep understanding of the agricultural landscape. By prioritizing relationships and efficiency, Lewis contributes to the success of CHS Rochester and the growers it serves.
What’s next
Looking ahead, Lewis and his team are focused on refining their operational strategies and strengthening relationships with growers to ensure a accomplished and productive year.