The North American Meat Institute (NAMI) announced general session speakers for its upcoming Meat Industry Summit, April 4-6, 2017, at the Rancho Bernardo Inn in San Diego, California. The inaugural Summit will replace and combine programming from the Institute’s Meat Industry Management and Outlook conferences. The annual conference will feature education sessions covering an array of topics, including food safety, government regulations, economics, communications and workforce issues.

John Schaus, fellow in the International Security Program at The Center for Strategic and International Studies, will open the Summit with a multi-media presentation that details perspectives and insights about emerging trends and issues in seven major areas driving global change: population, resources, technology, information, economics, security and governance. The presentation will help companies prepare for the rapidly shifting global landscape and develop more nuanced strategic plans to guide their future activities.

The Summit will also include presentations from Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) Administrator Al Almanza, who will provide an overview of FSIS priorities and the regulatory impact of agency policies, and John Nalivka, president of Sterling Marketing, Inc., who will deliver an economic update on the meat industry. Dr. Charlie Cartwright, assistant vice president at Lockton, will address the importance of employee engagement to business success.

“The Summit provides the most comprehensive overview of current issues affecting the meat industry, delivered by some of the leading experts representing industry, government and law,” said NAMI President and CEO Barry Carpenter. “The unmatched education program and respected, high-quality speakers will ensure attendees acquire in-depth knowledge and practical skills to implement at their companies following the Summit.”

In addition, attendees can participate in the numerous networking opportunities and social events offered, including the John Duyn Golf Tournament; the NAMI Ambassadors Reception; and the Issues, Answers, Actions Breakfast. The popular Sausage Fest competition and a Political Action Committee Reception will also take place. Furthermore, NAMI committee and Board of Directors meetings will be held.

“Attendees will benefit from the Summit’s collegial, interactive format, which will foster productive dialogues and encourage individuals to network with and learn from fellow professionals,” said Carpenter.

To view a copy of the draft agenda, click here. For additional information and to register to attend the Summit, click here.

Source: NAMI