Gallagher Ends Tenure as DMI CEO

Dairy checkoff program Dairy Management Inc. announced Tuesday that Tom Gallagher has decided to conclude his 30-year tenure as CEO to devote more time to teaching and other opportunities. Barbara O’Brien, President of DMI and CEO of the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy, has been named by the Board of Directors as the next CEO. The board leadership, Gallagher and O'Brien will work on a transition plan, and Gallagher has committed his support through the transition timeframe.

According to the Board, O'Brien's knowledge and experience with the dairy industry provide a seamless transition and a steady continuation of the checkoff's value to dairy farmers. 

In her current role, O'Brien has instilled a sales growth and outcomes-based mentality within her leadership team and staff, overseeing operating structures for business development, domestic and international sales, science and insights, marketing communications and finance. 

O'Brien added, "I will set a vision that harnesses the strong legacy Tom built and leads to new long-term growth."

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