Brian Barker took over the reins as president and chief executive officer of United Animal Health on Oct. 5. Not only will he lead the company’s strategic direction, business operations and growth initiatives, but he will also be focused on advancing the company’s mission to deliver innovative, science-based solutions to improve animal health and producer success.
With more than 25 years of leadership experience across global agribusiness, biotechnology, seed and crop protection markets, Barker has led complex organizations, developed growth strategies, built high-performing teams and guided businesses through transformational change, the company says.
“After an extensive search process, the Board is excited to welcome Brian as United Animal Health’s next chief executive officer,” Ellen Crabb, chair of the board of directors, said in a release. “Brian is a proven leader with a strong track record of driving growth, leading successful transformations, and developing exceptional teams. His agricultural expertise, customer focus, strategic mindset and commitment to people make him uniquely qualified to lead United Animal Health into its next chapter. We are confident he will build on our strong foundation and help accelerate our vision for the future.”
His experience spans business operations, technology development, commercial leadership, international markets, mergers and acquisitions and organizational transformation, the company points out.
Most recently, he served as president of GDM North America, where he led integration and growth efforts following GDM’s acquisition of AgReliant Genetics. Prior to that, he served as president and CEO of AgReliant Genetics, leading a business transformation that improved profitability, strengthened
strategic partnerships, enhanced organizational culture and positioned the company for its next phase of growth. His previous leadership experience includes executive roles with Corteva Agriscience and Dow AgroSciences.
“I am honored to join United Animal Health and have tremendous respect for the company’s people, culture and reputation for innovation,” Barker says. “United Animal Health has built a strong business centered on serving producers and advancing animal agriculture through science and innovation. I look
forward to working alongside employees, customers, and industry partners as we continue building on that success and creating value for the future.”
Barker earned a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science in business marketing from Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business. He has also completed executive leadership programs through Thunderbird School of Global Management and the University of Chicago Booth School of
Business.
