US National Pork Board appoints Dave Pyburn
As senior vice-president of science and technology, Pyburn will report to chief executive Chris Hodges and lead the science programs and research priorities of the National Pork Board. He will also participate in the pork producer committees and will manage the on-staff team of experts.
“Dr Pyburn is a respected and demonstrated leader in the swine science industry and has proven himself as both a qualified academic, and as a leader of his team,” said Hodges. “Dave’s professional history encompasses on-the-farm practical work, government experience and he was also previously the director of veterinary science at the National Pork Producers Council. Dave has many progressive ideas for this team and our industry, and we are looking forward to him starting his new role immediately.”
Through his more than 20 years of professional experience, Pyburn has developed a comprehensive view of all aspects of pork production. That includes specific areas of expertise such as animal science, swine health and welfare, pork safety and nutrition, producer and public health and sustainability. This complete view of the swine industry is key to address the science and technology challenges and opportunities that face the industry.
“People want to understand where their food comes from, and so much of that work in the pork industry is through science and research,” said Pyburn. “How we communicate to pig farmers, allied industry, key influencers and academics and the science community is critical. I look forward to sharing the strong work and story of continuous improvement that the Pork Checkoff has led over the past two decades.”
The National Pork Board has responsibility for Checkoff-funded research, promotion and consumer information projects and for communicating with pork producers and the public. The Pork Checkoff funds national and state programs in advertising, consumer information, retail and foodservice marketing, export market promotion, production improvement, science and technology, swine health, pork safety and sustainability and environmental management.
