Hayes Patrick has been appointed by Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce (MDAC) Commissioner Andy Gipson as the department’s deputy commissioner.
Patrick served as executive director of the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum from 2019-2023 and most recently served as MDAC’s director of administration where he oversaw the agency’s budgeting and accounting, personnel, fleet, and property management.
In his new role, Patrick will serve as a contact between MDAC and other state agencies, working closely with state legislators, and overseeing daily operations of the agency.
“Hayes has a unique skill set and background that have been a huge asset to our agency,” Gipson said. “I have no doubt Hayes will continue to bring his strong work ethic and passion for the state’s agriculture community to his new role as deputy commissioner.”
Patrick graduated from Mississippi College with a degree in Christian Studies and Philosophy and a master’s degree in secondary education.
He was a high school teacher for eight years before opening several businesses — including a fitness center, fresh produce market, catering, and a restaurant.
Patrick was an alderman for nine years and currently sits on various county and municipality boards and committees. He is a seventh-generation Mississippi farmer, raising cattle and timber on his farm in Puckett. Patrick currently resides in Brandon with his wife and their five sons.
“It’s an honor serving the state in this role and stewarding the great work being done at the Department of Ag and Commerce under Commissioner Gipson’s strong conservative leadership,” Patrick stated. “It’s no surprise that this agency has an immensely dedicated and hard-working team because we serve some of the hardest-working folks in the state – our farmers.”
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