Dairy Foods Association to Name Matt Herrick CEO in 2027
The leadership change will shift the trade group's advocacy strategy, impacting how dairy operators navigate federal regulations.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in People
Live Poll
Do you trust that trade association leadership changes reflect a commitment to representing consumer interests?
The International Dairy Foods Association has named Matt Herrick as its incoming president and CEO, effective January 1, 2027. He will succeed current leader Michael Dykes, who will remain with the organization until January 31, 2027.
Why it matters
This leadership transition marks a strategic pivot for the trade group, as Herrick brings a track record of digital engagement and advocacy strategy to the industry. His background in both executive and regulatory roles suggests a focus on aligning dairy industry operations with complex federal policy mandates.
Matt Herrick returns to the organization after seven years of previous service and a career that includes three presidential appointments. The foundation he established has delivered more than 1 million meals to individuals facing food insecurity.
The players
Matt Herrick
Incoming president and CEO with experience in federal policy and trade association management.
Michael Dykes
Retiring president and CEO currently managing the association's leadership transition.
International Dairy Foods Association
A national trade association representing the dairy manufacturing and processing industry.
The details
Herrick’s transition plan involves leveraging experience from his time as executive vice president and chief impact officer, where he managed policy, advocacy, and communications. His operational focus previously included implementing digital engagement tools and revenue-generating programs. These initiatives are expected to remain central to how the association navigates the regulatory environment in Washington, D.C.
Timeline
January 1, 2027: Matt Herrick assumes the role of president and CEO.
January 31, 2027: Michael Dykes retires from the association.
Market Landscape
This appointment follows the long-standing leadership tenure of Michael Dykes at the International Dairy Foods Association. The shift signals a transition to a strategy previously established by Herrick to bolster trade advocacy through digital engagement tools.
Operators in the dairy sector should prepare for a renewed emphasis on policy advocacy and digital communications strategies. Businesses should monitor the new administration's approach to federal regulatory compliance as the transition occurs in early 2027.
The takeaway
The move underscores the industry's focus on aligning commercial advocacy with federal regulatory relations. Operators should track the new CEO's stated priorities in the first quarter of 2027 to adjust their own regulatory monitoring efforts.
What happens next
Matt Herrick will officially take office on January 1, 2027, followed by the departure of Michael Dykes on January 31, 2027.
Further reading
For more on industry leadership trends, see the latest updates in People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Prepared Foods.
Live Poll
Do you trust that trade association leadership changes reflect a commitment to representing consumer interests?
