DataGene chief Matthew Shaffer named new Dairy Australia boss

Outgoing DataGene chief Matthew Shaffer has been named as Dairy Australia’s new boss, replacing David Nation in the top job.

DataGene boss Matthew Shaffer has been named as Dairy Australia’s new chief executive, set to replace David Nation in the new financial year.

Originally from the United States, Dr Shaffer started his career in the finance industry for the US-based Hancock Agriculture Investment Group.

He has also previously served as chief executive of Holstein Australia before taking over the reins of DataGene.in 2016.

Dairy Australia chairman Paul Roderick said Dr Shaffer was selected following an extensive recruitment process.

“Matt brings a wealth of experience and a proven ability to deliver meaningful change,” the Queensland farmer said.

“His leadership at DataGene, along with his deep engagement across global networks, government, and the dairy industry, positions him well to lead Dairy Australia into a new era.”

“After consulting farmers around Dairy Australia’s strategic direction, we are preparing to launch a new five-year strategy. Matt will contribute to shaping our future direction.”

DataGene chairman Tim Jelbart said that while the move created a vacancy at the organisation, he was delighted Dr Shaffer would continue in dairy administration.

“Under Matt’s leadership, DataGene has made a major contribution to a significant increase in the rate of genetic gain in the Australian dairy herd,” Mr Jelbart said.

“A recent benefit-cost analysis found that every dollar invested in DataGene returns $16 of benefits to the industry.”

Dr Shaffer will succeed Dr Nation next month, after seven years in the top job.

Incoming Dairy Australia chief executive Matthew Shaffer

One of the incoming chief’s key challenges will be the lack of financial contributions made by processors to DA, particularly its representative body Australian Dairy Products Federation.

A controversial vote was held at last year’s DA annual general meeting, highlighting the ADPF’s lack of financial contribution to DA, despite farmers chipping in $30 million a year to DA in levies, matched by about $20m from the federal government.

Last year, Mr Roderick noted it had been five years since the release of the Australian Dairy Plan when the ADPF indicated they would financially contribute to DA.