DES MOINES, IOWA  – The National Pork Board (NPB) announced David Newman, PhD, would assume the position of senior vice president for market growth effective June 19.

Newman will lead 16 pork professionals tasked with growing market demand internationally and domestically, as well as the organization’s health and nutrition research and outreach. 

The new role will not be Newman’s first involvement with the trade association. Newman started his first of two three-year terms on NPB’s board in 2016. He also served as the board’s president during 2020-2021.

During that time, he participated in committees and task forces that focused on strategic planning, swine health, producer services and domestic marketing. 

“David is a tireless advocate for the pork industry, and understands every major facet of pork marketing,” said Bill Even, NPB’s chief executive officer. “There aren’t many people in the world who have his experience in international trade, domestic demand, meat science and research. We’re thrilled to have him lead the team that is delivering growth for the pork category and adding value for America’s pig farmers.” 

On the international front, Newman participated in several producer delegations to major markets, including Mexico, Japan, and China. He has served as an executive committee member of the U.S. Meat Export Federation since 2021. 

Newman joins NPB after working as a full professor at Arkansas State University since 2016, where he led the meat science program and the university’s swine research facility. 

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to lead this work for the Pork Board,” Newman said. “When I started my first term on the board in 2016, I raised my hand to get involved in the work that I felt we needed to tackle the hardest – driving demand at home and across the globe. We’ve made some great progress since then, but there’s still much work to be done. There’s a great team working on behalf of producers to grow markets for pork, and I’m honored to be a part of that.” 

Newman also owns New Farm Heritage Berkshire Pork and Quality Meat Solutions, a firm that researches meat case metrics and quality. The company also provides animal welfare audits for farms and processing plants.