Finalists for the Top Producer of the Year award represent the best in the business of farming, specifically entrepreneurial originality; financial and business progress; and industry and community leadership. This is not an award about size or scope. Instead, it focuses on professionalism, sophistication and innovation. Congratulations to Seven Springs Farms, a 2022 Top Producer of the Year finalist. Joe Nichols was recognized at a ceremony held Feb. 14 during Top Producer Summit in Nashville.
At Seven Springs Farm in Cadiz, Ky., the calculator drives decisions. As a first-generation farmer, Joe Nichols has seen the highs and lows of commodity cycles and family business. But he knows a relentless focus on the financials creates long-term success.
In 1994, Joe planted his first crop. Through calculated decisions and relationships, he has grown his operation. It now includes 25,000 acres of corn, wheat, barley, soybeans and tobacco, cattle, crushed rock sales, crop insurance and an erosion control blanket business.
Joe leads a team of 46 full-time and 45 part-time employees. Several employees have been with the team for nearly two decades. The farm team also includes Joe’s daughters and several other family members.
Joe says he looks to hire talented people and then build the job around them. To help with employee retention, he pays above-average rates for his area, gives bonuses and provides constant feedback and appreciation.
With an acute focus on ROI, Joe has expanded and contracted his operation’s size and scope through the years. He does not fall in love with assets. Enterprises come and go as the market demands dictate. He measures nearly every metric on the farm, which helps him with business decisions.
From humble beginnings to a large sophisticated business, Joe continues to dream and plan how to create a business that will stand the test of time.
Now, let’s take a trip to Seven Springs Farms courtesy of AgDay.
The Top Producer of the Year award is sponsored by BASF, Case IH and Rabo AgriFinance.
