Jonathan Germeroth – Lake Jem Farms

When Jonathan Germeroth joined Lake Jem Farms as director of business development six years ago, it was a $6 million company. Today, LJF Holdco operates five different companies, including Lake Jem Farms, that collectively gross over $30 million annually and proudly employ over 200 people. 

Despite the growth, Jonathan maintains, “We are still the same old farm with a new look and new energy.” The new energy Jonathan brought, along with the ability to lead by listening, was key to successfully maintaining positive culture through an ownership transition. 

Jonathan is also co-owner, along with his wife, Ana, of Living Mortgage Group and Germeroth Realty. Developing relationships and creating culture is where Jonathan excels. “The key to work culture, in real estate or agriculture, or any field, is listening and surrounding yourself with good people.”

Passionate about Lake County and being involved in his community, Jonathan serves on the boards of Lake County Farm Bureau, Lake County Fair Board and Lake County Water and Soil Conservation District. He is also a 2011 graduate of Leadership Lake County.

Jonathan has 28 antique tractors, most of them produced by the Oliver Farm Equipment Company, an American manufacturer founded in 1924.