The National Pork Board has announced the promotion of Chuck Cozad to Chief Information Officer, effective immediately. Having joined the Pork Checkoff in 1998, Cozad was previously assistant vice president, information technology.
“Chuck has tirelessly worked on all of our efforts in the digital space, making sure he and his team stay current on the impact changing technology has on our business and industry,” said Chris Hodges, National Pork Board CEO. “Although often considered a ‘behind-the-scenes’ role, under Chuck’s leadership, our Information Technology department is out front making a difference to how our producers, customers and consumers access information.”
Digital platforms are a critical component of all of the Pork Checkoff’s communication efforts, from product promotion to producer education and issues management to scientific research. In this new role, Cozad will assess and build technology platforms to keep the organization on the cutting edge of managing and sharing information in the digital age.
Among Cozad’s first responsibilities will be the introduction of a Digital Communications Team. The focus of this cross-function group will be to research, assess, organize and implement new communication tools across all digital platforms.
“I look forward to this opportunity,” Cozad said. “I am proud to work for an organization that values the role that information technology plays in meeting the needs of Pork Checkoff employees and the pig farmers, packers, processors and customers so critical to our success.”
“There has never been a better time to recognize Chuck’s work and prepare for the technological advancements that are ahead,” Hodges said. “Defining new opportunities and proactively executing these responsibilities requires leadership, collaboration and engagement across department lines.”
Cozad will report to Hodges and become a member of the senior management team. Through this position, he will lead the information technology, digital platform development and infrastructure needs of the National Pork Board.
