Several new hires have been announced across the pork industry. Here’s a look at some of the newly filled positions.
NPPC Names New Manager of Marketing and Digital Communications
The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) announces Iowa-native, Mikayla Dolch as the new manager of marketing and digital communications. Bringing experience in agriculture and policy communications, Dolch will support the expansion and enhancement of NPPC’s digital programming activities.
Dolch most recently served as deputy director of communications for Secretary Mike Naig at the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. She also worked in the corporate affairs department for the Renewable Energy Group and interned for Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, the Iowa Pork Producers Association, and the Iowa Soybean Association. Dolch, raised on her family’s diversified livestock and row crop operation near Villisca, Iowa, also served as an Iowa FFA Association vice president, leading the southwest district.
DNA Genetics’ Announces Addition to Technical Services Team
Bringing over three decades of production experience, from farm management to logistics to sales, Paul Faris has joined DNA Genetics, a family-owned swine genetics company based in Columbus, Neb.
While at JBS Pork (formerly Cargill Pork), Faris successfully launched a 27,000-sow system through collaboration with farm managers and genetic suppliers. He also collected and analyzed diagnostic information and carried out research trials of veterinary products, feed ingredients and production practices to improve herd health. Faris also brings experience as a national swine sales specialist with Purina Animal Nutrition and as a swine account manager with Novus International.
“At DNA Genetics, we strive to exceed all expectations in areas of animal health, genetic programs and customer and technical services. Based on Paul’s extensive experience within the swine industry, he’s diving right in and will only improve the customer experience. We’re glad to have him on board,” says John Sonderman, director of technical services with DNA Genetics.
Alltech Adds Position in Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance
Supporting the advancement of Alltech’s “Working Together for a Planet of Plenty” project, Tara McCarthy has joined the team as global vice president of environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG). The project underscores the ability of the agri-food sector to provide enough nutritious food for all while revitalizing local communities and replenishing the Earth’s natural resources.
With 25 years of experience in the food industry, including serving as CEO of Bord Bia, the Irish Food Board, McCarthy is passionate about the opportunities within sustainably produced food. In addition, McCarthy has worked across the supply chain, led capability initiatives and developmental support programs for students, early career executives and entrepreneurs within the food industry. McCarthy also co-founded Agdif, an industry initiative championing diversity in the Irish food industry and led the establishment of the Origin Green Global Council.
JBS Names Company’s First Global Chief Sustainability Officer
Joining the executive leadership team as JBS’ first global chief sustainability officer, Jason Weller will oversee environmental, social and governance functions as well as sustainability strategies for JBS global.
“Jason has established himself as a trusted voice and accomplished sustainability leader who produces real results,” says Gilberto Tomazoni, JBS global CEO in a release. “We are confident that Jason’s leadership will help accelerate our sustainability efforts, including increased transparency, industry-leading investments and the more efficient use of natural resources to create a more sustainable agricultural system.”
Weller comes from Truterra, where he helped establish one of the largest agricultural carbon credit programs in the U.S. as president of Land O’Lakes. Additionally, Weller served as chief of USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service and worked at the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, the House Budget Committee and in the White House Office of Management and Budget.
