The Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association (TCA) announced the hiring of Dale Parker as its new Executive Vice President (EVP), effective immediately. Parker brings a lifetime of experience in the cattle industry combined with a distinguished career in business development and sales, positioning him to immediately focus on membership growth, legislative advocacy, and producer outreach across the state.
In his new role, Parker will be responsible for leading all operations of the organization, with a core focus on membership engagement, meeting with producers, managing legislative issues, and developing robust programs for the state’s commercial and seedstock producers.
TCA President Gary Dering expressed enthusiasm for Parker’s appointment:
“We are delighted to welcome Dale Parker as our new Executive Vice President,” said Gary Dering, TCA President. “Dale is a true Tennessee success story—a dedicated cattle producer, a successful businessman, and a servant leader who understands the challenges and opportunities facing our members. His deep business acumen and commitment to his community make him the perfect fit to lead the TCA into its next chapter and advocate effectively for all our state’s beef producers.”
A Proven Leader with Deep Roots
Parker is a native of Warren County, Tennessee, where he and his two brothers, Denton and Thomas Parker, own and operate a commercial cattle farm with Angus and Simmental influence. He is one of five children and is supported by his family, including his two sisters, Brenda and Lynn.
His professional background includes over 25 years in sales and business development across the flooring and medical device industries, including roles with Shaw, Dixie Group, and in the orthopedic medical field. This extensive experience provides him with a valuable, real-world perspective on the business challenges facing cattle farmers every day.
Parker’s educational background includes a degree in marketing and business administration from Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), where he also served in student government and interned in the Governor’s office.
Parker has served the industry in numerous volunteer roles, including on the Warren County Farm Bureau Board of Directors and as a State Director for the Tennessee Simmental Association. He is also a member of the American Angus Association and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA).
Commitment to Community and Producers
In accepting the position, Parker shared his gratitude and focus:
“I’m excited to take on the new role as the Executive Vice President for the TN Cattlemen’s Association. I appreciate the confidence the hiring committee has put in me. All of this is in part to the support of many people around me. I am especially thankful to my parents for the love and guidance and instilling a work hard and stay humble attitude. My brothers and sisters, my friends, my community, and to the many connections across the state I appreciate all that you have done for me. I hope in this role I will still have your generosity and support. In turn, I will do everything possible to live up to those expectations set before me. I’m grateful for the cattle producers across the state, the great leaders of our state. And above all I’m thankful that God has given us such a wonderful gift of life. With this, it’s time to roll up my sleeves and get to work.”
Parker’s philosophy for the future of the TCA and the industry is encapsulated in his guiding principle: “Respect the past, look to the future.” He emphasized that his vision is centered on people, stating that the beef industry is fundamentally “in the people business,” requiring the support of all segments, including commercial producers, seedstock developers, and marketers, to succeed.”
