The Nationwide Turkey Federation (NTF) has named Leslee Oden as its president and CEO.
She is going to assume the management place on July 1, when present president and CEO Joel Brandenberger retires after 17 years as head of the group.
The announcement was made by NTF Chairman John Zimmerman.
“On behalf of the NTF Govt Committee, Board of Administrators and membership, we’re excited for a brand new chapter at NTF with Leslee on the helm,” mentioned Zimmerman. “We performed an intensive search, and it was abundantly clear that Leslee was the candidate with the in-depth information wanted to assist navigate our trade by means of the intricate and difficult points the turkey trade is up towards. Her tenure at NTF brings a wealth of data, steadfast dedication, key trade relationships and a deep understanding of legislative and regulatory priorities that can proceed to guide the turkey trade into the long run.”
Brandenberger introduced his retirement plans in October of 2023 after 33 years with NTF and instantly an intensive, nationwide search was performed to determine a brand new president and CEO to guide NTF.
In her new function, Oden will oversee the day-to-day operations of NTF, lead the NTF employees and supply authoritative steering for all NTF members on quite a lot of points and matters.
“I’m thrilled to guide NTF into the future and am extremely grateful for the steering and assist that our Govt Committee, the Board of Administrators, Joel, present and former NTF employees, and all of our members have proven me all through the years,” mentioned Oden. “I’m keen to start out this new chapter for NTF and can proceed to be devoted in carving a path ahead for our trade and signify our members within the greatest approach doable.”
Oden, 38, has been a member of the NTF group for the previous 15 years. She joined NTF in 2009 as an intern and on the finish of her internship she loved a quick stint as a fellow for Rep. Parker Griffith, D-Alabama. She returned to NTF in January of 2010 as legislative affairs supervisor, superior to director of legislative affairs in 2015 and was named senior vp of legislative affairs in 2018. Throughout her tenure at NTF, Oden has been part of numerous legislative and regulatory victories over the years due to her advocacy for the turkey trade on Capitol Hill. She has additionally facilitated greater than a dozen Nationwide Thanksgiving Turkey displays and created and executed the profitable Turkey Smoke advertising and marketing program. She earned her bachelor’s and grasp’s diploma in poultry science from Texas A&M College and is a local of Leona, Texas. Oden resides in Washington, D.C. along with her canine, Louie.
