Chris Novak is the president and chief executive officer of CropLife America (CLA). Established in 1933, CLA represents the manufacturers and distributors of agricultural pesticides. CLA’s member companies develop, produce, sell, and distribute virtually all of the vital pesticide and biotechnology products used by American farmers. Chris joined CLA in August 2018. Prior to joining CLA, he was the chief executive officer of the National Corn Growers Association from 2014-2018 and CEO of the National Pork Board from 2008-2014. Chris started his career on Capitol Hill, then worked in agribusiness and for several farm organizations in areas such as farm policy, environmental services, trade, science communication, and biotechnology.

Chris, who grew up on a row crop and livestock farm in eastern Iowa, earned a bachelor’s degree from Iowa State University, a law degree from the University of Iowa and a Master of Business Administration from Purdue University.