Nick Colglazier, who most recently served as executive director of the Colorado Competitive Council , an affiliate of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce, has been hired as executive director of the Colorado Corn Growers Association.

He succeeds Mark Sponsler, the organization’s CEO of 13 years.

“Nick has a strong understanding of agriculture, over a decade of experience in legislative, public policy and strategic planning. His vision, when combined with his organizational management skills, are the ideal qualities in a leader we were seeking,” said Troy Schneider, president of the Colorado Corn Administrative Committee.

“I couldn’t be more thrilled to lead these two organizations with a common focus on strengthening the agricultural industry for the farmers of Colorado,” Colglazier said in a statement Monday. “What lies ahead of us is a tremendous opportunity to make a difference for our industry. I am excited to start this decade in a role where we can help growers tackle the challenges.”

At the helm of Colorado Corn, Colglazier is returning to his rural and agricultural roots. Prior to running C3, he was director of public policy for state affairs at Colorado Farm Bureau.

Colglazier is a fourth-generation Coloradan and native of Holyoke, where he worked on the family farm. He is a graduate of Colorado State University with studies in soil and crop science and agricultural business management.