With just over 30 days under his belt as the National Pork Board (NPB) CEO, David Newman couldn’t be more excited about the opportunity that lies ahead. He may be sitting in a new seat, but he says being a part of this organization and the strategic planning process over the past few years has provided him with the ability to hit the ground running for the industry.
“Now more than ever, there is a transformational opportunity for the pork business,” Newman says. “What gets me excited is building on the foundation established by the farmers. Unlike many CEOs who are hired during times of distress in a company, or times where the industry is looking for somebody to come in and shake things up, the strategic direction is already in place so I can go after it from a tactics standpoint.”
That focus, combined with direction from the board of directors, gives him a leg up, he says. He’s quick to point out the road ahead won’t be easy, but the opportunity is great.
“The National Pork Board represents 60,000 farmers who know a lot about a business that can change on a dime,” Newman says. “Agriculture is one of the riskiest businesses we can be in but is also one of the most rewarding. It’s been a great summer, and we feel a little bit of wind at our back, which is good. Now, it’s about focusing on how we really keep this momentum going into the future.”