WASHINGTON – The North American Meat Institute (NAMI) elected five new officers to serve the organization next year during its annual meeting Sept. 29.

 John Vatri, vice president of operations at Cardinal Meat Specialists Ltd., will serve as chairman of the Board of Directors, while Joe Maas, co-owner and vice president of operations at JTM Provisions, was elected vice chairman. Bar-S Foods Co. President and CEO Warren Panico will be treasurer, Brad McDowell, president of AB Foods LLC, was elected secretary and Mike Townsley, president of Bob Evans Farms Inc., will become immediate past chairman.

 “I look forward to working with the new officers and the entire Board of Directors to respond to key industry priorities in the year ahead,” said NAMI President and CEO Barry Carpenter. “This talented group brings a wealth of varied, in-depth knowledge about the challenges and opportunities facing our industry and a steadfast commitment to the dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to produce the safest, most wholesome, highest quality meat and poultry supply in the world. Their collective expertise will provide guidance to the Meat Institute and to the entire industry as we work together to advance our common interests and achieve our shared goals.”