Amber Miller to Join National Pork Board as General Counsel
The National Pork Board (NPB) has named Amber Miller, MS, J.D., as general counsel effective Jan. 5, 2026.
Established by Congress through the Pork Act and Order 40 years ago, NPB is mandated with the tasks of research, promotion and education for the benefit of the pork industry. As part of her role as general counsel, Miller will serve as the liaison between NPB and the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), which provides oversight to NPB to ensure Pork Checkoff funds are honorably used in accordance with the Pork Act and Order.
“Amber brings a wealth of legal expertise and leadership experience that will strengthen our organization and support the pork industry’s ongoing success,” Alex Wibholm, chief operating officer for NPB, said in a release. “Her strategic mindset and collaborative approach make her an excellent addition to our team. We’re excited about the positive impact she will have on our mission and our stakeholders.”
Most recently, Miller’s 10-year tenure as a partner at Crenshaw, Dupree & Milam LLP included support for NPB with antitrust and compliance. While there, she focused on agricultural and business law.
Pharmgate Animal Health Welcomes Jason Hall as Regional Account Manager
Pharmgate Animal Health welcomes Jason Hall as Regional Account Manager, leading business development and customer engagement across swine production systems. This newly created position reflects Pharmgate’s commitment to providing industry-leading service and solutions to customers. Pharmgate continues to invest in the expertise and relationships that help producers and veterinarians achieve sustainable, productive results.
Hall brings nearly 30 years of experience in swine production management, including leadership roles at Seaboard and Smithfield. His extensive background in sow-to-finish operations equips him to support producers and contribute to Pharmgate’s mission of delivering high-quality animal health solutions. His industry leadership is also reflected in his service on the Kansas Pork Association Board, where he was elected President in 2022.
Hall will be based in Kansas.
Renowned Swine Production Expert Joins Jyga Technologies’ European team
Jyga Technologies is proud to announce the arrival of Sylvain Longchamps as sales director for its European division. With more than 33 years of experience in swine production, Longchamps will bring to the team a unique combination of technical expertise, strategic vision and his distinctive human approach, the company said in a release.
In his new position, Longchamps succeeds Elmar Moormann, who is currently transitioning to retirement. He will ensure the continuity of sales in Europe while developing new markets. He particularly aims to introduce European producers to the potential of GESTAL feeding systems designed for finishing, and to strengthen Jyga Technologies’ reputation as a world specialist in precision feeding.
Holder of a bachelor’s degree in bio-agronomy and animal production from Université Laval, Sylvain quickly specialized in swine production. He began his career at duBreton, well known in Canada for pork production and processing, before being recruited by PIC France, where he managed the genetic nucleus and supervised several farms for thirteen years. He also participated in launching several major projects in Russia before founding his own swine production consulting firm. Always close to the field, Sylvain settled in Ukraine, where he continued to work closely with producers. He had the opportunity to participate in projects across Eastern Europe, mainly in Ukraine and Russia.
Diesen Announces Retirement from The Maschhoffs
Jeff Diesen, chief financial officer (CFO) at The Maschhoffs, will retire after more than 22 years of dedicated service, the company said in a release. Diesen will continue to serve as CFO through January 2026 before transitioning into an Executive Consultant role, supporting the company’s leadership team as it continues to advance key strategic priorities.
“Jeff has been a cornerstone of The Maschhoffs’ success and growth for more than two decades,” Jay Miller, president and CEO of The Maschhoffs, said in a release. “His financial expertise, leadership, and commitment to our people and purpose have left an enduring mark on our company. We are deeply grateful for the many ways he has strengthened our operations, mentored leaders across the organization, and helped guide The Maschhoffs through moments of change and opportunity.”
Throughout his career, Diesen has been instrumental in driving operational excellence and financial stability across the company. His influence extends beyond business performance—his leadership has helped shape The Maschhoffs’ culture and reinforce its commitment to caring for people, animals, and communities, the company said.
As part of a thoughtful and well-planned transition, Drew Hesker will assume the role of Chief Financial Officer effective Jan. 23, 2026. Hesker, a 19-year veteran of The Maschhoffs, currently serves as the senior director of support operations and has been a key contributor in driving results, developing teams, and upholding the company’s values.
