The Dairy Queen Operators’ Association and Cooperative announced the appointment of Josh Schmieg as its executive director effective January 1. Schmieg succeeds Harris Cooper, who after 20 years of service to the DQOA/DQOC elected to step down as its executive director on December 31. Cooper will maintain an active role with both companies as a consultant to Schmieg and the board of directors, as well as general counsel.

Schmieg has been an integral part of the success of the Dairy Queen Operators’ Cooperative for more than 10 years. In his capacity as director of purchasing and distribution, Schmieg was responsible for the oversight and management of the Dairy Queen Operators’ Cooperative supply chain business.

“I am proud of what has been accomplished for the Dairy Queen franchisees during my time with the DQOA/DQOC. It has been a pleasure to serve this system. This is a tremendous opportunity and I look forward to accepting the challenges of leading the Association and Cooperative into the future,” Schmieg says. Schmieg credits the incredible learning opportunity he was provided under the direction of Harris Cooper and the board of directors over the past 10 years.

“This succession plan has been in place for several months and Josh has the full support of the board of directors of the Dairy Queen Operators’ Association and Cooperative. He has shown a keen understanding of our business and we are confident in his abilities to lead the DQOA/DQOC,” says president Jerry Rizer.