CEO Commentary: New beginnings

CEO Commentary by Kelly Somerville

This fall is ushering in some big changes for me and LRIC alike. As I step into the role of CEO of this organization, I am invigorated by the tremendous work LRIC has undertaken and the excitement of projects to come.

In my previous position as Industry Services Manager, I had the opportunity to work closely with Mike McMorris, our outgoing CEO who has just retired, and am so humbled at the prospect of continuing the great work already underway. 

The coming months promise to be busy as LRIC prepares to host our International Research Advisory Committee for a two- day in person event September 25-26th. The role of this committee, which includes members from across Canada and internationally, is to bring international perspectives, ideas and practices to the Ontario livestock sector. At this upcoming meeting, the committee will work on developing a strategy for maximizing value from Ontario’s world class livestock research facilities. 

This fall will also feature Getting Research into Practice (GRIP) activities, including a roundtable, tours, and workshops. We look forward to welcoming the next cohort of our mentorship program for early career research faculty, which we’ve expanded this year from the University of Guelph to also include the University of Waterloo engineering department. 

LRIC will continue driving innovation in Ontario’s livestock sector by connecting stakeholders across the industry and beyond. The organization is on a great path, and I am eager to build on that momentum.

If you’d like to discuss innovation in the livestock sector, or have ideas for opportunities to collaborate, please reach out by phone at 519-831-1719 or email me. I look forward to connecting!