Devon Frederick Harvey is Executive Assistant to CRA President and CEO John Bode. Over the past 25 years, Devon has provided executive support in the hospitality, consulting, environmental, and medical fields. Prior to becoming an Executive Assistant, Devon was an award-winning public relations professional. Family engagement in corn farming and an interest in antique tractors help fuel Devon’s commitment to CRA’s mission.
Read on to learn more about Devon, in her own words:
Q: How long have you been with the Corn Refiners Association, and what is your role in the organization?
My employment as Executive Assistant to the President and CEO began in March 2023.
Q: What’s a typical day at work like for you?
In my role as Executive Assistant, I assist the CEO by managing his schedule, coordinating meetings, planning travel, communicating with Board Members, and generally keeping the wheels turning so that he can focus on the larger issues of the day.
Q: What do you like most about your job/working at CRA?
There are several qualities about CRA that I find very appealing. There is great camaraderie among staff with a very welcoming and inclusive environment. I find the opportunity to pitch in and help across departments important as it enables people to learn from each other and work together to accomplish our mission. In addition, the organization demonstrates a great deal of diversity which is reflective of its core value of inclusivity and empowerment.
Q: How have your past experiences prepared you for your current role?
With over two decades of experience in C-level executive support, special event planning and execution, meeting and travel planning, writing and editing, and public relations in the public and private sectors, I am well prepared to execute the responsibilities of an Executive Assistant supporting a senior executive. These skills are useful in working with a broad array of staff, the Board of Directors, and members of the domestic and international organizations with which we interact.
Q: How do you spend your time away from the office? Do you have any special hobbies?
My personal time is spent with a variety of hobbies including gardening and landscaping, cooking, entertaining, traveling, and reading, as well as spending time with family. Traveling is my true passion and I have had the good fortune to tour most of the United States and several countries in Europe. When traveling I like to kayak and go whitewater rafting and horseback riding when possible. In December 2022, my husband and I toured the Christmas markets of Germany and France which was a new, fascinating experience.
