The National Institute for Animal Agriculture (NIAA) Board of Directors has named J.J. Jones with Roots & Legacies Consulting, Inc. as the organization’s interim executive director. Jones began his role in January 2020. Previously, NIAA was managed by the National Livestock Producers Association (NLPA) for nearly ten years. The change is subsequent to organizational restructuring at NLPA.
Jones and the team at Roots & Legacies will lead all professional staffing needs for six months while the board of directors conduct a search for a full-time management company. In addition, NIAA leaders are establishing the organization’s next strategic plan to guide the organization forward.
“As leaders in the animal agriculture sector, we know there is no shortage of topics that we must collectively address. From antimicrobial resistance to the future of protein in our diets and animal well-being to environmental sustainability, NIAA allows leaders from across species to come together for our common good,” shares NIAA Chairman, Nevil Speer, Ph.D.
Roots & Legacies brings together talented, passionate leaders with diverse backgrounds who empower individuals and organizations within the food, agriculture and rural America space. In addition to its co-founders, the organization benefits from a vast network of associates across the U.S.
Speer goes on to share, “The Roots & Legacies team is no stranger to food and agriculture. NIAA will be guided by a professional staff that appreciates the opportunities and challenges animal agriculture faces. As the board plans for the future of the organization, we look forward to J.J.’s leadership.”
Jones, a native of Northwest Kansas who now splits his time between Kansas City and Council Grove – in the Flint Hills of Kansas, is a graduate of Kansas State University where he majored in animal sciences & industry with a minor in international agriculture. After working with various organizations including the Kansas Beef Council, Kansas Grain & Feed Association, Kansas Department of Agriculture and The Center for Food Integrity, Jones co-founded Roots & Legacies. In this role he works with clients and associates on association management and strategic communications. Roots & Legacies also works with clients on professional and personal development, business operations and influence-building efforts.
The National Institute for Animal Agriculture (NIAA) was established to derive solutions on the most current issues in animal agriculture. Its members include producers, veterinarians, scientists, government and allied industry representatives. NIAA is dedicated to programs that work toward the eradication of diseases that pose a risk to the health of animals, wildlife and humans. It also promotes a safe and wholesome food supply and best practices for animal health and well-being as well as environmental stewardship. More information is available at animalagriculture.org.
