IN BRIEF Strong new MD J ason Strong has beenappointed as MLA’s ManagingDirector, replacing Richardas an external partner, I understandthe workings and responsibilities ofour industry research and marketing Norton, who resigned in late 2018. service company. I also appreciate the responsibility MLA has to meet the MLA Chair Dr Michele Allan said the expectations of red meat producers MLA Board unanimously supported and broader industry,” Jason said. the appointment. Most recently, Jason was Chief Executive “I am looking forward to working with Officer of Smithfield Cattle Company, a contribution to the development of MLA’s Board, staff, red meat producers family owned feedlot and cattle supply the Meat Standards Australia (MSA) and the broader industry to make certain business. Prior to this he was Managing program and has owned a number of we are best positioned to respond Director with AACo, during which time meat retail outlets. to the challenges and opportunities he led its evolution into a vertically Jason is the current Chair of the EU and ahead,” Jason (pictured) said. integrated supply chain company. UK Red Meat Market Access Taskforce “I want to ensure MLA’s current Jason has also represented industry and is the past Chair of the Australian programs and projects continue to as MLA’s Regional Manager in Europe Beef Industry Foundation. He also deliver value, but also identify and and Russia. In a previous role he was spent 17 years managing and coaching implement what is required for the responsible for the expansion of Pfizer’sthe Australian Intercollegiate Meat future success of the red meat industry. (now Zoetis) DNA technology into new Judging Team. ■ “Having previous experience with international markets. mla.com.au MLA, both within the organisation and He made a significant and early 4