What education are you bringing with you to this position?
I have a BSA (bachelor's degree in agriculture – animal science major/ag economics minor) from the University of Saskatchewan.

Please describe your agricultural background.
I have been involved professionally in the agriculture industry for almost 20 years – feed industry ruminant nutrition experience, pharmaceutical industry experience (all species focus) and agriculture equipment industry experience. I am from a cattle ranching family from southern Alberta and have always had a passion for livestock, food production and science and innovation.

What territory will you cover?
I will cover western Canada – British Columbia, Alberta, Sask and Manitoba – as a dairy sales professional.

What are your new responsibilities?
Supporting and promoting company products to veterinary clinics, feed channel customers and end-user customers.

What previous positions have you held?
Prior to joining Elanco Animal Health, I worked in the farm equipment manufacturing industry; I worked as a field marketing product specialist with CNH Industrial and represented the New Holland Agriculture brand in Alberta and British Columbia, where my focus was on high horsepower tractors, combines and hay and forage equipment for five years.

I worked in the animal health pharmaceutical industry with Wyeth/Fort Dodge Animal Health as a territory manager for three years, covering Alberta and British Columbia mixed animal veterinarian clinics, focusing on all species. I also have worked as a territory manager feed consultant for nine years with Cargill, covering territories in Alberta and Manitoba.

Who has made the biggest impact on your career?
My father, John, who was a cattleman and rancher who instilled in me an enduring philosophy: "Be willing to help your neighbors, and always take care of your animals. If you do, they both will take care of you." And Jack Welch – learning about his management philosophies early in my career has served me well.

How will you be of most help to producers in your region or area of expertise?
I have a passion for animal agriculture and helping producers find effective ways to utilize emerging technologies to be more profitable and competitive in their industry. I also feel very fortunate to find opportunities to position high-quality company products in my region to support healthy animals. I have a broad knowledge base from many key agriculture sectors and can offer practical understanding and a common-sense approach to troubleshoot areas of concern and offer practical solutions to producers in my region.

Why did you choose this company?
I chose Elanco Animal Health because of its fantastic, supportive team culture and its solid reputation for creating value for customers. I am also excited for the innovative opportunities that have been growing with the broader portfolio since the Novartis Animal Health acquisition.

What goals would you like to accomplish while in this position?
I would like to grow the market share presence of the company's products in western Canada veterinary clinics and end users while creating a legacy of providing exceptional value to my customers.  PD