Barry Jennings

Beef Council Names New Executive Director

PIERRE --(April 11, 2007)--Barry Jennings has been named the new executive director of the South Dakota Beef Industry Council (SDBIC). Jennings , a cattle producer and Ft. Pierre native, will take over the position when Pat Adrian retires July 1.

            “The board is looking forward to working with Barry,” says SDBIC President Roger Gerdes . “His enthusiasm, optimism and fresh ideas will be invigorating to the Council and the state’s beef industry.”

            Jennings comes to the position with a long history in the state’s beef industry, says Gerdes. His family has been ranching for more than 100 years in Stanley County . Jennings continues to own and manage a cattle operation on the family ranch south of Ft. Pierre .

A South Dakota State University graduate, Jennings served as Deputy Commissioner for the South Dakota Office of School and Public Lands from 2003 until this past January. Adrian, who has held the executive director position since 1973, says Jennings ’ management and communication skills, in addition to his understanding of the beef industry, will be a definite asset as he helps steer the organization which collects and administers the Beef Checkoff program in South Dakota .

Jennings says he is honored and excited to be named the SDBIC’s executive director. “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” he says. “I understand the big shoes I have to fill. I hope to be able to build on the phenomenal success that Pat has had as executive director for the past 34 years and I look forward to making a positive impact on the Council and promoting the industry that I love.”

Jennings will begin working alongside Adrian in the office beginning May 1, helping to provide a smooth transition, says Gerdes.

The SDBIC collects and administers the $1 Beef Checkoff on cattle sold in South Dakota . Checkoff dollars are utilized strictly for promotion, education or research programs. Fifty cents of every dollar is directed to the Cattlemen’s Beef Board for programs on the national level. The SDBIC retains 50 cents, which is invested in additional national programs or in-state programs.

The SDBIC is comprised of three representatives from eight agricultural organizations: SD Beef Breeds Council, SD Cattlemen’s Association, SD Cattlemen’s Auxiliary, SD CattleWomen, SD Farm Bureau Federation, SD Farmers Union, SD Livestock Auction Market Association, and SD Stockgrowers Association.