Joel Jarnagin

Joel Jarnagin was raised in Jetmore, Kansas, on his family’s farming and cattle feeding operation, where he learned early the values of hard work, discipline and caring for livestock. These experiences shaped a lifelong passion for the cattle feeding industry. After graduating from Washburn University in 1987 with a BBA in accounting, he went on to gain diverse experience at Fred Waldron Feeds in Hawaii and later as a partner at Emery Commodities in Texas, building a strong foundation in feed manufacturing, risk management and commercial operations.

Joel joined Grant County Feeders in Ulysses, Kansas, in 1995 as feed mill manager and became general manager in 1998. For the next 15 years—under both Continental Grain and JBS Five Rivers—Joel focused on disciplined operations, steady leadership and supporting his team. His time at Grant County helped establish him as a trusted and respected leader in the industry.

In 2015, Joel became CEO of Cobalt Cattle Company, formerly Green Plains Cattle Company. When he assumed the role, the business operated a single 73,000-head yard. Through a measured strategy and a strong emphasis on people, Joel helped guide the company’s growth to seven locations with a capacity of 410,000 head, making Cobalt the fourth-largest cattle feeder in the United States. Joel also played a key role in forming two significant partnerships—King Ranch in April 2024 and an innovative, first-of-its-kind strategic relationship with AgReserves-Deseret Ranches later that year.

Throughout his career, Joel has emphasized integrity, teamwork and long-term relationships. He attributes his success to the people around him and considers it a privilege to serve the cattle feeding community.

Joel and his wife of 40 years, Vicki, have two children—Jayde (Chandler) and Joshua (Jessica)—and five grandchildren.