After serving eight years as Agriculture Secretary, Tom Vilsack will continue to serve agriculture, although in a new capacity. Vilsack will be president and CEO of the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) beginning Feb. 1, according to a news release.
The announcement confirmed rumors Vilsack would succeed Tom Suber, who retired after 22 years.
In his new role, Vilsack will work with industry leaders to develop a long-term vision for building sales and consumer trust in U.S. dairy. He will also oversee the council’s global promotional and research activities, regulatory affairs and trade policy initiatives.
Thomas Gallagher, CEO of Dairy Management Inc. (DMI), said Vilsack’s knowledge and rapport make him the “preeminent choice to take the helm of USDEC.”
Vilsack said he is excited about the opportunity.
“I’m working for people I like, and I’m working with people I like, number one,” Vilsack said in a statement. “Number two, you know it’s a great product. It’s very easy to sell and to advocate on behalf of the dairy producers and the processors and the companies of this country.”
Vilsack also has a deep respect for dairy farmers and the industry.
“Probably more than any other aspect of agriculture, these dairy producers are working 365 days a year 24/7,” Vilsack said in a statement. “I know they are hard working. They care deeply about the industry and about their families and their farms.”
Vilsack will need to establish relationships with the Trump administration poised to carve a new trade landscape. Trade is critical to strong milk prices.
“Fifteen percent of dairy products are currently being exported and that has helped to stabilize prices,” Vilsack said. “It’s helped to create a better opportunity long-term and as we increase that number, increase that market share, it increases the opportunity to take the efficiencies and the productivity of American producers and make sure it doesn’t necessarily become a drag on prices.”
USDEC is a non-profit, independent organization that seeks to enhance the global demand for U.S. product and ingredients.
The Agriculture Secretary is the sole remaining cabinet position for which President-elect Donald Trump hasn’t named a nominee.