National Chicken Council Names New Executive Officers
Poultry operators should note the board transition as new leadership takes charge of industry advocacy and regulatory efforts.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in People
The National Chicken Council has appointed a new slate of leadership, naming Kevin McDaniel as its chairman. This transition at the industry trade organization also includes the selection of new officers to oversee the body alongside President Harrison Kircher.
Why it matters
Trade council leadership transitions signal shifts in policy priorities and lobbying focus for the U.S. poultry sector. As these industry veterans assume their posts, operators should track how their respective backgrounds influence future regulatory engagement.
The board transition brings over 60 years of combined industry experience to the leadership team. Harrison Kircher continues his role as president for his third term, while Kevin McAdams and Brad Respess join the officer lineup.
The players
Kevin McDaniel
An industry veteran with over 35 years of experience who now serves as chairman of the National Chicken Council.
Kevin McAdams
The president and CEO of Perdue Farms, a major integrated poultry company, who now serves as vice-chairman of the National Chicken Council.
Brad Respess
The president and CEO of Marietta, Georgia-based Tip Top Poultry, who now serves as secretary-treasurer of the National Chicken Council.
Harrison Kircher
The president of the National Chicken Council, now serving his third term in the role.
The details
The National Chicken Council has installed a new board structure tasked with representing the interests of the domestic poultry industry. The board shift includes Kevin McDaniel taking the chairman seat, Kevin McAdams serving as vice-chairman, and Brad Respess filling the secretary-treasurer role. This structure coordinates the group's ongoing advocacy efforts while supporting the established operational continuity maintained by President Harrison Kircher.
Timeline
October 29, 2026: The National Chicken Council announced the new officer appointments.
Market Landscape
This leadership change follows the established rotation schedule required by the National Chicken Council's bylaws. It marks a shift in internal governance for the organization, balancing long-term continuity under President Harrison Kircher with new executive perspectives.
Operators in the poultry sector should monitor these new leaders for signals on upcoming lobbying efforts and compliance priorities. The shift in the council's executive board may impact how the industry engages with national regulatory bodies in the coming year.
The takeaway
The appointment of veteran executives to the council signals a continued focus on seasoned industry leadership at the helm of poultry advocacy. Members should review the council's updated officer list to identify new points of contact for policy and regulatory concerns.
Further reading
Learn more about organizational leadership trends in our People section.
