Chesterfield-based United Soybean Board (USB) has tapped a former National Security Council director as its new CEO. Courtney Knupp officially started the role on Oct. 1, taking the helm of the national Soy Checkoff, the industry-funded program that promotes demand for U.S. soybeans.

Knupp served as director of global supply chain at the National Security Council before joining USB. She brings nearly two decades of experience in agriculture, trade and market development, including roles at the National Pork Board, the U.S. Soybean Export Council and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. She grew up on a soybean farm in Iowa and studied agricultural business at Iowa State University.

USB's 77 farmer-leaders ratified her appointment in July. In an interview with RFD-TV, Knupp said expanding demand for soy tops her agenda. "We need to create more viable markets and end users for soy and its derivative products," she said. "That way we can create value throughout the whole supply chain, but ultimately back to the farmer."

Knupp said she plans to meet with farmer-leaders and staff across state soybean boards in her first months on the job.

Trivium Brings Metal Tour to The Factory Nov. 25

Metal band Trivium will headline The Factory at The District on Wednesday, Nov. 25, as part of a 32-date North American tour supporting their eleventh album, "Crown in the Grave." The album arrives Nov. 20 through Roadrunner Records.

In Flames and Frozen Soul round out the bill, according to Patch. The tour opens Nov. 5 in St. Petersburg, Florida, and wraps Dec. 19 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

The Factory, at 17105 North Outer 40 Road, holds about 3,000.