Staff
CCA staff support the Canadian beef industry by executing the vision of the board of directors and engaging directly with industry stakeholders and government.
To learn more about our staff members, click on the photos.
Dennis Laycraft
Executive Vice President
Leading the CCA and its various divisions, Dennis serves as a spokesperson for the beef cattle industry on trade, product safety, and animal disease issues. A senior policy analyst and lobbyist for the CCA, Dennis addresses issues at the national and international levels which impact Canada’s beef cattle industry. He manages any legal actions that the CCA undertakes to defend Canada’s beef cattle sector from trade actions or unfair trade practices and is a member of the industry technical advisory group on World Trade Organization (WTO) negotiations.
Participating on several government and industry task forces and committees, Dennis has chaired or sat in an advisory capacity on many initiatives including the Regulations and Standards working group on the Agri-Food Competitiveness task force; advisor to Canada’s Auditor General’s department on a number of food inspection and research matters; and is the current co-chair of the Beef Value Chain Roundtable which brings together industry leaders throughout the value chain to provide strategic direction. Dennis is a founding member of the Canadian Beef Grading Agency.
Ryder Lee
General Manager
Ryder leads the Canadian Cattle Association’s (CCA) operations as General Manager. Working closely with Dennis Laycraft and CCA’s elected leaders, Ryder engages with divisional leads on most key files to keep activity, policy and strategy aligned. Ryder’s background with the Domestic Agriculture Committee and Animal Health and Care committee work over the years make those areas more often a focus of Ryder’s direct involvement.
Ryder worked for the CCA in Ottawa from 2005 to 2015, where he was responsible for advancing federal and provincial files as the Domestic Agriculture committee’s staff lead. He also worked on animal care issues leading him to become chair of the National Farm Animal Care Council from 2014 to 2022. From 2015 to 2022, Ryder was the CEO of the Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association, where he worked on many similar files to CCA with a provincial focus. Prior to CCA, Ryder worked for Dow AgroSciences. Ryder’s brother runs the ranch in southern Saskatchewan where he spent his early years. His career has seen him working and living in Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario. He brings the experience he gained during his time at CCA, along with the wider exposure he received to agriculture in previous roles, to his everyday work for beef cattle producers.
Jennifer Babcock
Chief Government and International Affairs Officer
Based in Ottawa, Jennifer leads CCA’s government and public affairs team, developing strategies to communicate CCA’s policy positions with the Federal Government and stakeholders. Jennifer also leads CCA’s international affairs efforts, working to strengthen trade partnerships, address non-tariff barriers, and advance Canada’s role in global agricultural policy discussions. She collaborates with global industry leaders and policymakers to ensure Canadian beef producers remain competitive in international markets.
Prior to joining CCA, Jennifer worked in public affairs and advocacy with a focus on agriculture, health, trade, and environment. She also previously worked on Parliament Hill and remains actively involved in Canada’s government relations community, advocating for mentorship and wellness opportunities within the profession.
Follow Jennifer on LinkedIn
Dr. Leigh Rosengren
Chief Veterinary Officer
Dr. Rosengren graduated from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan in 2001. After graduation Leigh worked in mixed animal practice in Humboldt and Weyburn, Saskatchewan. She received a PhD in Veterinary Epidemiology from the University of Saskatchewan (2008) and established a consulting service for Canada’s livestock and poultry sectors with their animal health and food safety concerns.
In recent years, Leigh has been focused on the family farm and cow calf operation. While doing so she completed a Masters of Agribusiness from Kansas State University (2021) with the intention of expanding consulting services to incorporate a more financial focus on health and management decisions.
Leigh has recently joined the Canadian Cattle Association as their Animal Health and Care lead. She also sits on the Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association as a director and serves as the Animal Health and Welfare committee chair.
Gabriela Guigou
Animal Health and Care Manager
Gabriela is part of the CCA policy team in Ottawa. In her position, Gabriela works closely with federal, provincial, and territorial governments (FPT) as well as industry stakeholders to strengthen disease surveillance and enhance preparedness and response strategies for the cattle sector. She is a passionate advocate for agriculture, and her expertise extends to antimicrobial use and resistance.
Prior to joining CCA, Gabriela worked as the animal health lead in the pork sector. With a solid academic background, Gabriela holds a bachelor’s degree in molecular biology and a master’s degree in science from Laval University. Gabriela has always had a deep connection to agriculture. Born and raised on her family farm in Uruguay, she has spent her professional career in Canada, focusisng on agricultural research, animal health, and policy.
Gabriela and her family live just outside of Ottawa.
Tina Zakowsky
Communications Manager
As communications manager, Tina Zakowsky fields media requests and shares information and updates on CCA’s advocacy work.
Prior to joining CCA, Tina spent the last 18 years working for the Canadian Angus Association in communications roles. She volunteers for the Calgary Stampede and has volunteered with the Canadian Beef Industry Conference since the inaugural conference in 2016. Her background also includes interactive marketing, and project management, editing, writing and research in children’s educational publishing.
Jarred Cohen
Regulatory Affairs Manager
Based in Ottawa, Jarred leads CCA’s regulatory efforts, particularly in response to government consultations, submissions, and letters. He supports CCA’s domestic agriculture and food policy files and helps craft policy positions with the federal government and industry stakeholders. Prior to CCA, Jarred worked at one of Canada’s leading business associations on several files including agriculture, transportation, and health. He has a keen interest and knowledge of the Canadian political scene and uses that knowledge to drive policy files forward. Follow Jarred on Twitter at @jarred_cohen.
Jessica Radau
Policy, Programs and Engagement Manager
Jessica Radau serves as the Policy, Programs, and Engagement Manager at the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA). In her role, Jessica leads CCA’s food policy file and acts as the staff liaison for the Beef Cattle Code of Practice update.
Jessica graduated from the Canadian Cattle Young Leaders Program in 2018. She farms with her husband and his family near Bowden, Alberta, on a farm established in 1927. They are the fourth generation on the mixed farming operation, which includes purebred Hereford and commercial cattle as well as grain production.
Caron Melin
Controller
Caron brings a broad range of experience to her position with the CCA. After starting her career in and Oil and Gas and Tech industries, she has found a passion for the not-for-profit sector and agriculture. Caron manages CCA’s accounting department and is responsible for financial reporting, payroll, benefit administration and numerous other required financial responsibilities.
Mitchell Zoratti
Environment and Climate Change Manager
Based in Calgary, Mitchell leads the environment and climate change policy team for CCA. In his role, Mitchell staffs the CCA Environment Committee and participates in a number of collaborative initiatives between industry, government, conservation organizations, academics, and other stakeholders. Mitchell works with partners to ensure the interests of cattle producers are well represented on issues around climate, environment, and sustainable beef production.
Mitchell grew up on a multi-generational ranch near Pincher Creek, Alberta, where his family has been ranching since 1907. He is proud to be the fifth generation on the land, and leverages a deep respect for the environment to guide his approach to work.
Graydon Garner
Environment and Climate Change Coordinator
Graydon is a part of the environment and climate change policy team for CCA. In his role, Graydon staffs the CCA Environment Committee and participates in several collaborative initiatives between industry, government, conservation organizations, academics, and other stakeholders. Graydon works with partners to ensure the interests of cattle producers are well represented on issues around climate, environment, and sustainable beef production.
Prior to joining CCA, Graydon worked for Ducks Unlimited Canada delivering farm-gate agricultural conservation programs and managing relationships with beef and crop industry partners in Alberta. Graydon obtained his BSc in Conservation Biology from the University of Alberta and holds his PAg (Professional Agrologist) designation in Land Conservation and Management.
Graydon and his wife live on the family ranch near Strathmore, Alberta, where his wife’s family has been ranching since 1909. In his spare time, Graydon can be found hunting, fishing, or working around the ranch with his dog.
Paula Jenkins
Office Manager
As office manager, Paula oversees all office administration, CCA’s annual general meeting, semi-annual meeting preparation, staff support, expenditure allocations and travel arrangements.
Glenice Bratvold
Accounting Coordinator
Providing accounting support to CCA’s Controller, Glenice is responsible for full-cycle accounting for CCA and its multiple divisions and departments. She plays an important role in both month-end duties and the annual audit.
Sherin Chopra
Operations Coordinator
Sherin brings a diverse range of professional experience in business administration and service operations. She has worked with a variety of industries and departments for projects, sales, retail operations, customer service, academic compliance, supply chain, logistics, geoscience and event planning.
As an Operations Coordinator, Sherin supports the management of CCA’s operational needs including project administration and financial reporting for government funded programs. She also assists CCA and its operating divisions with projects including annual corporation filings, oversight of insurance and other annual reporting and renewals along with other emerging administrative requirements.
Sherin also provides administrative support to the Canadian Cattle Foundation to assist with foundation operations and board activities including annual charitable reporting requirements, meeting planning, and fundraising activities.
Cailey Church
Youth Leadership Coordinator
Based in the Calgary office, Cailey coordinates and supports the Canadian Cattle Young Leaders (CYL) program and the Canadian Cattle Youth Council (CCYC). She is responsible for planning the events, coordinating communications, and acting as the CCA staff person for the Youth Council and CYL program. She works closely with each program at an administrative level to ensure successful and seamless programming.
Sarah Creach
Government Relations Coordinator
Based in Ottawa, Sarah is the Government Relations Coordinator for CCA. In this role, she supports the CCA’s advocacy efforts by organizing high-level schedules, arranging meetings with government officials and stakeholders, coordinating logistics, and managing independent projects. She also leads the planning and execution of CCA’s key events in Ottawa, ensuring strong industry representation and engagement.
Sarah holds a Bachelor of Arts with a concentration in International Development and a minor in Art and Design. She brings a global perspective and creative lens to her work, using her background in graphic design to develop compelling advocacy materials that support CCA’s communications and outreach efforts.
Elise Mohler
CCA Intern
Elise Mohler is the CCA intern for the summer. She grew up on a commercial cow/calf operation outside of Strome, AB and was an active 4-H member for 9 years. In 2024, she obtained her Bachelor of Science in Animal Health majoring in Food Animals from the University of Alberta and has completed her first year of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Calgary. Elise’s goal as a future veterinarian is to support beef producer and rural communities by working as a mixed or large animal veterinarian. During this summer at the CCA she looks forward to assisting in various areas including the Canadian Young Leaders (CYL) program and The Environmental Stewardship Award (TESA) program.
Beef Cattle Research Council
Andrea Brocklebank
Executive Director
Overseeing the Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC), Andrea works collaboratively with the industry to identify research priorities for the BCRC. She manages the evaluation, selection and implementation of these research projects.
Shannon Argent
Business Manager, Verified Beef Production Plus (VBP+)
As Business Manager for Verified Beef Production Plus (VBP+) Shannon works closely with the rest of the national VBP+ staff and provincial coordinators to deliver the VBP+ program across Canada. Shannon is primarily responsible for national initiatives related to partnerships, business activities, and outward facing VBP+ projects. VBP+ delivers training and verification services in an effort to demonstrate responsible practices at the farm and feedlot level on Canadian beef operations. Shannon brings a range of beef-related career experience, practical family farm and ranch experience, and a deep passion for the VBP+ program, to help manage VBP+’s business operations.
Reynold Bergen, PhD
Science Director
Dr. Reynold Bergen provides scientific and industry expertise to the BCRC and Beef Science Cluster, working with industry to identify research priorities, review research proposals and scientific reports, and engaging with industry and research experts on an ongoing basis. To ensure producers have access to current research information, he develops factsheets for projects funded through the BCRC, and writes articles that are available through the CCA, provincial beef organizations, various agricultural media outlets and BeefResearch.ca. Reynold also works to gather and provide relevant research-based information for industry, public and government communications on specific issues.
Michelle Bryan
VPB+ Technical Manager
Michelle is responsible for providing direction and support for the technical verification requirements of the VBP+ program and support to VBP+ Delivery Services Inc. certification services. Michelle will be based out of her home office in Alberta.
Michelle completed her BSc in Biological Sciences at the University of Lethbridge and an MSc in Agricultural and Bioresource Engineering at the University of Saskatchewan, where she focused on livestock welfare during long distance transportation. She has also holds a CRSP (Canadian Registered Safety Professional) with a focus in on-farm safety as well as Oil & Gas, trucking, and international logistics. Michelle has worked within the Canadian cattle feeding sector and also within the oil and gas industry as a technical consultant and data analyst with emphasis on quality, safety and environmental metrics. Michelle enjoys trail riding out in the mountains on horseback and working border collies.
Ellen Crane
Knowledge Mobilization Coordinator
Ellen helps coordinate the development, maintenance and utilization of various extension resources, including the BCRC’s webinars, blog articles, and other content on www.BeefResearch.ca.
Stacey Domolewski
Research and Innovation Coordinator
Stacey assists with the review of scientific reports and gathering of relevant research-based information for various audiences. She helps coordinate the development, maintenance and utilization of various extension resources, including the BCRC’s webinars, fact sheets and other content on www.BeefResearch.ca. Stacey also coordinates the BCRC’s Beef Researcher Mentorship Program.
Sydney Fortier
Research and Innovation Coordinator
Sydney assists with the review of scientific reports and gathering of relevant research-based information for various audiences. She helps coordinate the development, maintenance, and utilization of various extension resources, including the BCRC’s webinars, fact sheets and other content on www.BeefResearch.ca. Sydney also coordinates the BCRC’s Beef Researcher Mentorship Program.
Tracy Herbert
Knowledge Mobilization and Communications Director
Tracy oversees the development, maintenance and utilization of various research extension tools, including www.BeefResearch.ca, with a focus on accelerating the adoption of innovations related to production efficiencies, animal health, and food safety and quality to cattle producers and other industry stakeholders. To maximize investments in research, she also works to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of technology transfer in the Canadian beef industry through greater collaboration and empowerment of technology transfer agents, and supports direct engagement of researchers with industry.
Charlotte Quickel
Operations Manager
Charlotte supports the development and implementation of BCRC’s business planning and budgetary processes, project selection and management, results reporting, and assists with board and stakeholder engagement.
Leah Rodvang
Operations Coordinator
Leah was raised on a cow-calf and backgrounding operation in rural Alberta. She pursued her love of agriculture with a degree in Range and Pasture Management at the University of Alberta. In 2016, Leah moved to Manitoba to take a position as a Research Technician at Manitoba Beef & Forage Initiatives. In 2022 – 2023, Leah served as the Manitoba delegate to the Canadian Cattle Youth Council.
Suman Sondhi
Administrative Assistant
Providing administrative support to the CCA, Suman coordinates and administers various projects and committee meetings for the Verified Beef Production™ program and the Beef Cattle Research Council. This includes account tracking and reporting on various jointly-funded programs within the CCA. She provides administrative support on numerous industry research projects, including organizing materials for final submissions.
Kristin Thompson
Knowledge Mobilization Specialist
Kristin Thompson helps coordinate the development, maintenance and utilization of various extension resources, including the BCRC’s webinars, blog articles, and other content on www.BeefResearch.ca.
Dana Parker, RVT
Veterinary Collaboration Specialist
Dana Parker works part-time fostering relationships with veterinary teams and their beef clients to build awareness of the BCRC’s current information and tools and to collaborate in the development of future resources to improve herd health and profitability.
Laura Monchuk
Communications Specialist
Laura Monchuk works part-time to help create, distribute and refine BCRC communications through our various channels utilizing her knowledge and skills in writing, editing and graphic design.
Jenny DeLorme
BCRC Intern
Jenny DeLorme is from Portage La Prairie, MB. She has recently graduated from the University of Saskatchewan with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture majoring in Animal Science and minoring in Agribusiness. She was involved in her local 4-H and grew up on a small hobby farm working with cattle and horses.
As the BCRC intern, Jenny will be assisting the extension team on a variety of projects this summer. One of her goals is to grow her connections within the industry, learn more about new research and learn more about the BCRC’s role. This summer she is excited to meet and learn from leaders of the beef industry and overall develop the basis of her career in the beef industry.
Canadian Beef Breeds Council
Macy Liebreich
Program Administrator
Macy collaborates with industry partners to execute program funding, elevate seedstock sector policy concerns, and engage with the industry for the advancement of Canadian beef genetics domestically and internationally. Macy grew up on her family’s purebred operation in Southern Saskatchewan, earned her commerce degree from UBC Sauder, and worked in the small business accounting space before moving to Calgary to action Alta Genetics’ third-party import/export program.
Canfax and Canfax Research Services
Brenna Grant
Executive Director
Brenna Grant is the Executive Director of Canfax and Canfax Research Services (CRS), responsible for business development. Canfax is Canada’s source of cattle market information. CRS provides the Canadian beef industry with comprehensive statistical and market information on the domestic and global beef trends. Economic analyses are utilized for marketing, research, policy and investment decisions supporting strategies, business plans and performance measurement.
Brenna grew up in SW Saskatchewan on a cow/calf, yearling grasser operation that her family still operates. She received a BA in Agricultural Economics from the University of Saskatchewan and a Masters in Applied Economics from Montana State University. She is currently the Chair of the Statistics Canada Agriculture and Food Advisory Committee and Chairs the Global Roundtable for Sustainable Beef’s Climate Science Committee. CRS provides project and data management for the Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (CRSB) National Beef Sustainability Assessment.
Huiting Huang
Research Analyst
Huiting is responsible for maintaining a wide variety of national and international data sets, writing for regular publications. A major part of her role is background research and statistical analysis on CRS projects. Her language skills have contributed to the reliable international data that CRS utilizes. She has developed decision making models using Canfax’s unique database and has a background in survey analysis. She manages the Canadian Boxed Beef report and assists with data requests.Huiting joined Canfax Research Services in 2013.
Jamie Kerr
Market Analyst
Jamie Kerr joined Canfax as a Market Analyst in May 2022. Jamie obtained a M.Sc. in Food, Agriculture and Resource Economics (FARE) from the University of Guelph, Ontario. Having spent time as both a beef and dairy producer he has first hand experience within the beef supply chain. Jamie does writing, speaking and research projects for the team.
Genet Mengistu
Environmental Data Analyst
Genet Mengistu
Environmental Data Analyst
Jessie Chen
Member Relations and Database Coordinator
In November 2023, Jessie Chen took over as Canfax’s Member Relations and Database Coordinator. Jessie has three years experience in project management, coupled with a five year tenure as an operation coordinator. Her working experience made her to be detail oriented, motivated, and organized. She has a strong multi-tasking skill, and she provides essential support to our office administration team as well. Her background in the media industry enables her to complete the database operations and report management.
Dallas Rodger
Market Analyst
Dallas responds to member inquiries for data and market analysis, gathering feeder prices from across western Canada, performs daily radio reports while also writing market commentary, and analysis in weekly reports. Dallas is the cattle on feed coordinator and has also taken a lead role on the annual feedlot demographic survey. Maintaining communication with cattlemen, feedlot managers, auction mart facilitators and agri-business professionals has been critical in providing timely and valuable market information.
Michael Sydora
Research Analyst
Michael Sydora
Research Analyst
Heidi Tymko
Research Analyst
Heidi Tymko joined CanFax Research Services (CRS) in September 2023 as a Research Analyst. Heidi grew up in central northeast Alberta on her family’s purebred cow/calf Black Angus operation. Growing up she was active in 4-H and the Canadian Junior Angus Association which established her passion for the beef sector. She received her BA and Masters in Agricultural Economics from the University of Saskatchewan. Her master’s research focused on the finances of cow/calf operations in Western Canada. Her background in both agricultural economics and finances allows her to utilize data as stories and lessons for producers
Nico Wong
Research Analyst
Nico Wong, also started in September 2023 as a Research Analyst. He is a 2021 graduate in Economics from the University of Calgary. He has a deep-seated passion for economics has been the driving force behind my academic journey. Although he had no prior experience in the agricultural field, he is eager to use his economics background to explore the dynamics of the cattle industry, resource allocation, and economic policies. Nico’s analytical skills and fresh perspective can contribute to innovative solutions in this vital sector. Beyond his academic pursuits, he enjoys playing volleyball, camping and hanging out with friends. Nico is committed to embracing the learning curve ahead and excited about the potential to make a meaningful impact in the agricultural industry.
Ju Zheng Ma (Peter)
Feeder Market Analyst
Ju Zheng Ma (Peter) joined the team in January 2024 as our Feeder Market Analyst. Peter graduated this spring with a major in Business Analytics from the University of Calgary. He is passionate about data-driven insights and delivering excellent customer satisfaction. With experience in tech and analytics tools, he excels at transforming complex data into actionable strategies to drive meaningful results.
Clare Starosta
Canfax Intern
Clare Starosta is from a family-run grain and cattle operation located near Dalroy, AB. They run a commercial cow-calf herd consisting of Simmental-Red Angus-cross cows with Charolais bulls and background their calves. She is currently entering her fourth and final year at the University of Saskatchewan where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture with a major in Animal Science and a minor in Agricultural Business.
In addition to the hands-on cattle experience she gained on her own farm, Clare has also assisted master’s students at the university in conducting nutrition trials with both beef and dairy cattle. After completing her degree, she plans to pursue a master’s degree and eventually work in the industry while also managing her own farm.
This summer, she is interning with Canfax, where she will have the opportunity to learn how to perform various roles, including member relations and database coordination, market analysis, and research analysis. She is particularly excited to learn how to analyze market trends, as she plans to apply this knowledge to make informed decisions about when to buy and sell cattle on her own farm. Clare also looks forward to expanding her professional network and learning as much as she can from industry experts.
Public and Stakeholder Engagement
Amie Peck
Executive Director
Amie leads the Public and Stakeholder Engagement (PSE) team which works to increase public trust in the Canadian beef industry by supporting industry synergies, forming strategic partnerships and connecting positively with consumers and the public. This includes addressing industry issues by coordinating key messages and specific responses together with provincial and industry organizations. Promotional content and campaigns are also developed that highlight the benefits of beef production in Canada.
Lynsay Beavers
Stakeholder Engagement Specialist
As part of the Public and Stakeholder Engagement (PSE) team, Lynsay leads various projects to promote consumer trust in the Canadian beef industry, including the Beef Advocacy Canada program. She also works on issues response and assists with PSE communications, campaign strategy and execution. Prior to joining CCA, Lynsay worked in the dairy industry in extension, marketing and communications.
Emma Cross
Stakeholder Engagement Social Media Coordinator
As the Stakeholder Engagement Social Media Coordinator, Emma oversees the social media efforts of the Public and Stakeholder Engagement (PSE) program. Her role is centred around planning and creating content to increase public trust in the beef industry and highlight positive stories from Canadian beef farmers and ranchers. In addition, Emma offers support on issues response and public outreach activities alongside the rest of the PSE team. Emma is a rancher herself and dedicates her time away from her herd of purebred Herefords to creating effective communication between producers, industry stakeholders, and consumers.
Jenna Sarich
Stakeholder Engagement Technical Consultant
Jenna is the Stakeholder Engagement Technical Consultant and supports the accelerated delivery of the Public & Stakeholder Engagement (PSE) management strategy and business plans. A major part of her role is to seek, track and analyze research relevant to the beef industry and disseminate the information into key messages for stakeholders. Her duties also include providing scientific support and assisting in PSE projects to connect positively with consumers and the public. Jenna is a master’s student at the University of Saskatchewan in the Department of Animal and Poultry Science and has a wide background in animal research, public outreach, and technical support.”
Jessica Davey
Public and Stakeholder Engagement Intern
Jessica Davey is from a beef cattle farm southwest of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Her family owns and operates Rivendale Cattle Company with a herd of purebred Black Angus and Shorthorns, as well as commercial cattle.
She is finishing her degree at the University of Saskatchewan in the College of Agriculture of Bioresources with a major in Animal Science and a minor in Agribusiness. Jessica has been involved in the Agricultural Students Association, Usask agriculture clubs, as well as 4-H, and junior beef breed associations. Jessica is very passionate about the beef industry, beef, and sharing the story of our industry and building transparency with consumers and youth. She looks forward to her internship with the Canadian Cattle Association Public and Stakeholder Engagement team.