SALISBURY, Md. — Dr. Kay Russo, a doctor of veterinary medicine, is Perdue Farms’ new senior vice president, science and innovation.
Russo’s appointment will strengthen the company’s scientific strategies and support its science-led decisions in animal welfare and food production, the company noted in its announcement, adding that she will lead in working across its brands with its innovation, stewardship and commitment to raising animals with no antibiotics ever.
“Science is foundational to who we are as a company and how we produce high-quality, great-tasting proteins responsibly,” Todd Tillemans, Perdue Farms chief commercial officer, said. “Dr. Russo brings the expertise and leadership needed to help us continue raising the bar on animal welfare, product quality, and innovation across our brands, while translating rigorous science into real-world outcomes for our customers, consumers, and partners.”
Russo will also “play a vital role in advancing Perdue’s innovation pipeline by collaborating with consumer insights, genetics, nutrition, and processing teams to deliver meaningful, fact-based value across Perdue’s branded portfolio. Her efforts will support the company’s ongoing focus on transparency, quality, and continuous improvement,” the company added.
Russo has more than 15 years’ experience in animal agriculture with work focused on animal health, welfare and nutrition.
Prior to this announcement, she served as an RSM Consulting partner and owner, where she advised poultry and livestock companies on research and science-based commercialization efforts. In addition, she has held senior veterinary roles with Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Land O’Lakes and Novonesis.
Russo was also recently featured on the television news program “60 Minutes” to discuss prevention methods for H5N1 avian influenza.
She holds a DVM degree from Cornell University, a master of avian health and medicine from the University of Georgia, and a bachelor of arts from Kalamazoo College.
