ALEXANDRIA, VA. — The North American Renderers Association (NARA) appointed Charles Starkey, Ph.D., to vice president of scientific and regulatory affairs on Dec. 13. As part of his new role, Starkey will also serve as director of research for NARA’s rendering research organization, the Fats and Proteins Research Foundation (FPRF).

Prior to joining NARA, Starkey served as assistant professor at Auburn University’s Poultry Science Department, where he taught students about animal feed manufacturing and poultry production. At Auburn University, he also directed research focused on pet food and animal feed manufacturing, nutrition and gastrointestinal health.

“I am honored and humbled by the opportunity to return to working with an outstanding group of people and to once again continue to serve the animal food industry in this capacity,” Starkey said.

Starkey will leverage his more than 30 years of experience in cattle, swine, poultry and pet nutrition to advise the North American rendering industry on various issues and oversee research, training and policy. He will represent the rendering industry to regulatory organizations, academia and partnering associations on several issues, including sustainability, biodiversity, animal health and pathogen control. Starkey will also provide advice and assist NARA’s members.

“We are excited to welcome Charles to the NARA and FPRF team,” said Kent Swisher, president and chief executive officer of NARA and FPRF. “His experience and expertise will be of great benefit to both our members and ongoing research efforts.”

Starkey has bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Arkansas State University and a Ph.D. from Kansas State University.

Read more about personnel changes throughout the industry.