The new president is Randall Ennis, former CEO of the Aviagen Group, but is currently director of international business development for the EW Group based in Germany.

The World Poultry Foundation was previously known as the USAPEEC International Poultry Development Program (UIPDP), and aims to promote economic development in emerging markets outside the US by providing education and technical training on poultry production.

“Randall’s experience in running an international organisation like Aviagen offers us an ideal person to lead and grow the World Poultry Foundation, and to realise its mission,” said WPF Chairman Eric Joiner.

“He will be instrumental in providing a platform for educating and training others to increase poultry production in emerging markets, convene the right groups to solve common problems and find partners who share the same vision.”

In addition to assuming the role of WPF president, he will continue to work with the EW Group until completion of various projects in which he is involved.

“This is a unique opportunity and offers me a chance to give back to the industry that has been so good to me and my family,” said Mr Ennis. “I am excited to have the platform to position poultry as a solution to world hunger.”

“Through the WPF, we’re ready to take our Russian investment proceeds and use them to support poultry production around the world, especially in those developing countries that need our assistance in such areas as biosecurity and food safety,” said Jim Sumner, who has served as president of UIPDP and will now continue his role as lead director on the WPF Board.

“Randall, with his global contacts and understanding of our industry, is perfectly suited to lead the WPF into a new level of global involvement.”

Mr Ennis holds a bachelor’s degree in poultry science from Auburn University and has more than 30 years of experience in the poultry industry ranging from production to primary breeding.

The World Poultry Foundation will provide technical and educational services, infrastructure and program development, and disaster relief to developing countries and emerging markets.