The Wisconsin Livestock Identification Consortium (WLIC) is pleased to announce Patrick Fitzgibbons as it's new Executive Director. Fitzgibbons brings a wealth of industry experience to WLIC as well as strong industry relationships with producers and agri-businesses. Most recently he was the Cattle Procurement Manager at Cargill, Milwaukee, Wis., orchestrating the multi-site procurement of cattle from producers and brings extensive experience in strategic planning and business analysis. An industry leader, he formerly served as Vice-Chairman on the WLIC Board of Directors.In his new role, Fitzgibbons will lead WLIC in the strategic planning and management of Wisconsin's premise ID registrations and animal tracking programs. He will be responsible for developing innovative initiatives and cultivating relationships with industry stakeholders and producers to promote the value and importance of identification and traceability. As Executive Director, Fitzgibbons will oversee the responsibilities of WLIC Management and work closely with DATCP and state veterinarians to ensure a quick response to disease outbreaks.
"With recent PED and Avian Flu outbreaks, WLIC proved it's intrinsic value by reducing response time and expediting animal tracking by state veterinarians in controlling Wisconsin's outbreaks. Patrick's strong agricultural background and extensive industry connections will make him an excellent leader should other disease situations arise. He will adeptly keep WLIC on the identification forefront to help secure a safe food environment for both producers and consumers," says board president Kim Brown-Pokorny.
The mission of the Wisconsin Livestock Identification Consortium is to create a secure livestock identification system to protect animal health and market access, and offering opportunities to enhance the marketability of Wisconsin livestock products. Representing more than fifty businesses, organizations and livestock producer associations, WLIC draws upon the collective strength of its diverse membership to help strengthen and advance animal disease traceability in Wisconsin and the nation as a whole.
10.12.2015