Clark Smith appointed director of Indiana grain licensing agency

By Andi Anderson

The Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) is proud to announce the appointment of Clark Smith as the new director of the Indiana Grain Buyers and Warehouse Licensing Agency (IGBWLA).

Hailing from southern Indiana, Smith brings a rich background in agriculture and business management to his new role.

Raised in Brownstown, Jackson County, Smith has deep roots in the agricultural community. Alongside his wife, he manages a family-owned Angus cattle herd near Greenfield, Hancock County.

This hands-on experience in farming is complemented by his professional tenure at Corteva Agriscience, where he specialized in crop protection management.

As director of IGBWLA, Smith's responsibilities will encompass managing staff and overseeing the agency's statutory obligations.

These include approving new license applications and conducting audits of Indiana’s commercial grain operations. His role is vital in ensuring the integrity and financial stability of the grain industry in Indiana.

Smith will also serve as the chairperson of the Indiana Grain Indemnity Corporation Board of Directors. In this capacity, he will collaborate with local, state, and federal agencies, as well as private sector partners, to align the services of the agency with the needs of grain purchasers across the state.

"Agriculture has been a huge part of my personal and professional life, and I am excited to begin the journey of public service and give back to this dynamic industry," Smith said.

His educational background, including a Master of Business Administration focused on marketing and data analytics from the Kelly School of Business at Indiana University, equips him with the skills needed to lead the agency effectively.

Outside of his professional life, Smith is actively involved in his community as a Greenfield Central school board member and a Riley Festival board of directors member.

His long-standing commitment to agriculture is also evident from his involvement in 4H and his former role as Jackson County Cattlemen’s President.

ISDA Director Don Lamb expressed enthusiasm about Smith's appointment: "We are looking forward to Clark’s expertise and knowledge in leading this very important division, for our department and our state."

With his extensive background and community involvement, Smith is poised to drive forward the mission of the IGBWLA, focusing on risk mitigation and ensuring financial security for Indiana's farmers.

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