New CEO takes the reins at the SCA

The Saskatchewan Cattlemen's Association welcomed its new Chief Executive Officer on Monday.

Grant McLellan takes on the role from Ryder Lee who has moved into his new role as the new General Manager of the Canadian Cattle Association.

McLellan is looking forward to his new role, noting that agriculture has always been in his roots.

"I grew up on the family farm just outside of Holdfast, Saskatchewan. We lived in town, but our farm was not far away. A grain operation and my mom's side had cattle (Hereford) and my uncle had a Hereford operation as well. "

McLellan also bring his experience in the political arena to the new job. 

He spent about ten years working in various positions within the Provincial Government, including in the Ministry's of Agriculture, Trade and Export.

"I think there's a skill set that I can bring in terms of bringing forward the concerns and the priorities of the livestock sector. In particular, our members, and our producers in Saskatchewan here to bring that perspective. To offer some expertise, and some opportunities to get their priorities in front of decision makers."

There's a lot of key issues on the table for the beef industry including the current and ongoing impacts of the drought.

"The significant drought that we had last year, was a very key kind of reminder to folks of how tight the margins are in this sector. And how important it is to support our producers, particularly on beef side. "

He says the other issues that they really need to focus on is the government position, particularly at the federal level as we tackle climate change priorities.