Leslee Oden Named President and CEO of National Turkey Federation

The National Turkey Federation (NTF) announced today that Leslee Oden has been named NTF President & CEO and will assume the leadership position in July when current President & CEO Joel Brandenberger retires after 17 years as head of the organization. The announcement was made by NTF Chairman John Zimmerman.

“On behalf of the NTF Executive Committee, Board of Directors and membership, we are excited for a new chapter at NTF with Leslee at the helm,” said Zimmerman. “We conducted a thorough search, and it was abundantly clear that Leslee...

Turkey Smoke is Back in 2024 and Expands from Coast-to-Coast

The National Turkey Federation (NTF) is pleased to renew its partnership with the Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS), kicking off the fifth year of the Turkey Smoke Series, which encourages both professional and amateur pitmasters to showcase the versatility and creativity of turkey on the smoker or grill. The Turkey Smoke Series features a turkey category in select barbeque competitions across the United States during the 2024 season. Pitmasters and contest organizers love that the Turkey Smoke Series adds thousands of dollars...

Joel Brandenberger to Retire as National Turkey Federation President and CEO

Brandenberger will retire in June after 33 years of service to the industry

After 33 years with the National Turkey Federation (NTF), including 17 years as President and Chief Executive Officer, Joel Brandenberger will retire on June 30, 2024. The announcement was made today by NTF Chairman Steve Lykken.

“On behalf of the NTF Executive Committee, Board of Directors and membership, I would like to thank Joel for his decades of service to the industry,” said Lykken, President of Jennie-O Turkey Store...