Andy Ball

Finance Director

Andy Ball joined the Practical Farmers of Iowa staff in June 2022. As finance director, Andy works to further PFI’s strategic vision, mission and goals in concert with the PFI community. This effort includes leading financial aspects of administration, budgeting, reporting, grants management and policy development.

Andy views his contribution in terms of empowering PFI staff to achieve their individual mission goals. This approach requires an in-depth knowledge of all departments and operations, and he knows that it’s a neverending effort. He considers finance a “team sport” and appreciates input and advice from all community members.

The Midwest has been Andy’s home for many years, and he earned an undergraduate degree from Drake University and an MBA from the University of Iowa. After 15 years at a computer software company where he worked in sales, marketing and international operations, Andy embarked on a non-profit career that has included working for three human service organizations as well as the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden.

When not working, Andy likes to spend time with his family and watch financial news. He also enjoys hiking and exploring central Iowa’s bike trails, as well as sampling local food truck fare.

He makes weekly trips to an 18-acre farm in Taylor County, Iowa, that he’s restoring to native condition. It was once an oak savanna, and a number of noble pre-settlement oaks still shade the plot. His plans include eliminating invasive species (for which he received a Resource Enhancement and Protection grant) and developing natural prairie.