Leading the Way: Introducing 2026 NACM Chair, Jason Mott, CCE

Jason Mott, CCE, corporate credit manager at MFA Incorporated (Columbia, MO), brings nearly three decades of experience in B2B credit. With a strong work ethic, he has woven his passions for agriculture and credit into a distinguished and rewarding career. 

Mott’s expertise, experience and commitment to advancing NACM’s mission make him more than an advocate—he is an exemplary leader. Following his tenure on the National Board, we are proud to announce Mott as our 2026 National Chair.

Cultivating a career: From family farm to finance 

A Missouri native, Mott has deep roots in the agriculture industry, having grown up in a family that built and operated a beef processing business. After graduating from the University of Missouri in May 1996, he planned to continue the family’s legacy. However, those plans changed the following year when his father decided to sell the business. 

In September 1997, Mott launched his credit career as a loan officer trainee at a local bank. Within months, he accepted a role as assistant vice president at Farm Credit Services of Western Missouri (now FCS Financial) in Clinton, Missouri, where he honed his expertise for nearly a decade. 

Mott and his wife later relocated to the Columbia area, where he worked in commercial banking for more than six years. Missing the connection to agricultural lending, Mott seized the opportunity to join MFA Incorporated, a Midwest-based regional farm supply and marketing cooperative, in April 2014. In September 2017, he transitioned from retail credit manager to his current role as corporate credit manager. 

A career turning point 

Mott’s career took an exciting turn when he became a member of NACM in September 2015, encouraged by his former supervisor, Jerome Gerke. After attending the NACM Fall Conference in St. Louis, Mott decided to pursue his first professional designation through NACM and FCIB’s six-level Professional Certification Program. 

Before applying for the Certified Credit Executive (CCE) designation, Mott completed the required NACM Career Roadmap on NACM’s website. “To help me study, I reached out to my friend Kevin Stinner, CCE, CCRA, with J.R. Simplot Company, who had just earned his CCE designation,” said Mott. “Kevin sent me his study materials and directed me to the Credit Learning Center (CLC).”

Mott successfully passed NACM’s CCE exam in June 2016, which was administered before NACM’s annual convention, Credit Congress & Expo, held in Las Vegas. “Earning my certification gave me the confidence to pursue new opportunities within my organization,” Mott said. “I felt better prepared to assume my current role and more confident in writing credit policy, analyzing financial statements and understanding bankruptcy code.” 

Advancing in leadership 

To deepen his involvement with NACM, Mott joined the National Board in January 2022. “This experience has taught me that NACM is filled with outstanding leaders,” he said. “Building relationships and collaborating with members from diverse backgrounds has been essential to success.” 

As a Director, Mott championed the idea of developing an Executive Leadership track at Credit Congress. Recognizing NACM’s organizational changes, Mott advocated for a complete review of its governance documents, starting with the creation of a succession plan and then updating the national bylaws and governance policy. With that work completed, Mott can concentrate on strengthening connections across the organization as Chair.

As with any career, challenges arise. During a critical vendor transition at MFA last year, various departments had assumed added responsibilities, including the credit department. It was through resilience and collaboration that Mott’s team ensured a smooth changeover. “I’m proud of the team we’ve built and have instilled that one of the most important leadership skills is embracing change because the business credit world is always evolving,” said Mott. 

Looking ahead, Mott hopes to further hone his leadership skills, gain knowledge from peers and expand his own credit expertise through participation in advanced workshops and NACM’s Thought Leader Forums.

Mentorship for professional growth 

Mott credits three mentors who have had a lasting impact on his career. The first is Dave Putnam of First State Community Bank, who taught him how to analyze and underwrite credit, identify strengths and weaknesses and present findings clearly. 

John Akridge of MFA Incorporated also played a pivotal role in guiding Mott into his current position. “His leadership and advice have helped me navigate both challenges and opportunities,” Mott said. “He’s someone I can always go to for ideas and honest feedback.” 

Former NACM National Chair JoAnn Malz, CCE, ICCE, has also been a key influence since Mott joined the National Board. “When I face a difficult decision or need advice, JoAnn is always there to help me weigh the pros and cons,” he said. “My journey on the Board has been much easier with her leadership.” 

Charting his vision: Goals and plans ahead 

In the year ahead, Mott is determined to lead with confidence, clarity and purpose. The professional and personal development of his team and NACM members continues to be the driving force behind each of his decisions. His strategy is simple: stay informed and continuously seek opportunities to learn and grow as a leader and credit practitioner. 

“I look forward to attending NACM’s 130th Credit Congress & Expo in St. Louis and welcoming our new National President with open arms,” he said. “I encourage others to attend—not just to network, but to earn a professional designation, hear from industry leaders and celebrate our community’s accomplishments.” 

Despite his professional accomplishments, Mott’s most important role continues to be husband to his wife, Rebecca, father to sons Andy and Aaron and grandfather to Evelyn, Stella and Colter. Apart from running his family Wagyu cattle operation, Seven Hills Livestock Farm, Mott enjoys hunting, fishing and cheering on his home sports teams.  

Check out the January issue of Business Credit magazine for the full story!