Hear Her Story: Raven Kropf, President of Teys USA

With more than two decades of experience, Raven Kropf has built a distinguished career in the meat industry and today serves as President of Teys USA. Her journey, rooted in agriculture and shaped by perseverance, mentorship, and a sense of purpose, reflects the evolving role of women in an industry once dominated by men. Raised on a small farm in Kentucky, Kropf developed an early appreciation for agriculture. After earning a degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Kentucky, she was drawn to the meat industry because it combined her passion for agriculture with the opportunity for variety and growth. “The industry offered enough diversity in roles to make for an interesting career,” she explains.

When Kropf began her career 23 years ago, the environment looked very different from today. She often found herself as the only woman in the room—and, just as frequently, the youngest professional. Over time, she has witnessed significant change. “The meat industry has made meaningful progress in attracting young talent from a variety of backgrounds,” she notes. One of the most striking shifts has been the growing presence of women in commercial and operational roles, areas that were rarely accessible to women two decades ago. This change, she believes, has made the industry more innovative and more reflective of the diverse consumers it serves.

Mentorship has also been central to Kropf’s professional growth. Throughout her career, she has benefitted from the guidance of strong, inspiring female leaders. Their support, she says, shaped her decisions, provided perspective during challenges, and gave her confidence to pursue complex opportunities. “Having a trusted sounding board at every stage of a career is invaluable,” she emphasizes. For Kropf, mentorship is not just about advice, but about building the resilience needed to navigate a demanding industry.

Like many leaders, Kropf has had to navigate the demands of both career and family. She rejects the notion of a perfect work-life balance, describing it instead as a constant juggling act. Her approach has been to make intentional choices based on the season of life she is in. When her children were young and her husband’s role required extensive travel, she deliberately chose a position with less travel to support her family while still advancing her career. “Every professional decision must also serve you personally,” she says, a philosophy that has guided her toward a sustainable and fulfilling path.

Kropf’s career has spanned sales, procurement, e-commerce, business development, international markets, and commercial strategy. Each role, she says, has challenged her to grow, adapt, and build new skills. What inspires her most, however, is the purpose behind the work. “The meat industry plays a critical role in feeding the world,” she reflects. “Being part of something bigger than myself—something that touches millions of lives—gives my work deeper meaning.”

Her advice to women considering careers in the meat industry is clear: “Your perspective is needed. This is a field where you can shape your own path, make an impact, and build a dynamic, rewarding career.”

Through her leadership and example, Raven Kropf demonstrates how resilience, mentorship, and purpose can shape not only a career but also the future of an industry.