(NAFB.com) – Lucas Lentsch has resigned as chief executive officer of the United Soybean Board, the farmer-led organization that directs checkoff funds for research and promotion, the board announced Friday. Lentsch, who had led the board since 2024, submitted his resignation effective immediately following the group’s February meeting. The board said interim leadership will be provided by Darryl Chatman, the organization’s executive vice president of compliance, as directors begin a national search for a permanent CEO. The resignation comes amid reports of internal disagreements over management authority and staffing decisions, with some board members seeking limits on executive autonomy. Sources familiar with the situation characterized a rift between Lentsch’s leadership style and the board’s expectations. The United Soybean Board oversees investments from the mandatory soybean checkoff, which funds marketing, research and education aimed at increasing demand for U.S. soybeans. The board represents farmers from more than 30 states and influences domestic and international soy markets.