KatieRose McCullough previously served as chief scientist for the Meat Foundation and will continue to serve as senior director for science and public health at the Meat Institute.
Sara Sarnstrom joins Wixon to lead compliance efforts across vendor management, quality assurance and regulatory affairs to ensure alignment with domestic and global regulatory requirements while supporting operational scalability and business continuity.
Jeremiah Johnson, a 20-year company veteran and director of food safety management, steps into the role of vice president of global food safety and quality management.
With a strengthened financial foundation and new ownership in place, Fortrex enters its next chapter focused on long-term growth and continued service excellence.
Michael Watson, APHIS Administrator, plans to retire at the end of January 2026, and Rosemary Sifford, deputy administrator for veterinary services and US chief veterinary officer, has recently retired from federal service.
Beginning Feb. 1, 2026, Kelly Moore serves as acting administrator and effective immediately, Alan Huddleston serves as acting US chief veterinary officer.