Jeff Nielsen grew up on a large dairy farm, learning the true meaning of a hard day’s work. In his career, he has been involved in sales, sales management, and divisional leadership positions that eventually led him to have the opportunity to spend over 20 years as the CEO of a large, diversified co-op where he had the privilege of helping to guide the organization and grow its value for its members. 

Through this journey he has led the efforts to start several new businesses and cooperatives, served on many boards, and has had the privilege to hire, coach and mentor many talented team members. Jeff prides himself on being an entrepreneur and having a vision for what it takes to create new opportunities, and the persistence to make that vison a reality. 

Today, he is excited to be a founding member of EmpowerU and to have the opportunity to apply what he has learned to help organizations grow through the intentional growth of talent. As part of the EmpowerU Team, Jeff focuses on leadership skills, organizational effectiveness, and talent development.