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By Alice McFarlane

Swine Innovation Porc

Group that sets national research priorities for the pork sector announces change in leadership

Oct 22, 2025 | 12:48 PM

An organization that coordinates Canadian research, development and knowledge transfer for the country’s swine sector has selected a new chair.

Mark Ferguson was named to the position at Swine Innovation Porc (SIP) last month.

Ferguson brings more than 20 years of experience to the role. As General Manager of the Saskatchewan Pork Development Commission, based in Saskatoon, Sask., he has been instrumental in advancing numerous industry growth initiatives. He grew up on a family farm near Edgeley, Sask. and currently serves as Chair of the Prairie Swine Centre board of directors.

Ferguson said he is honoured to head up the group.

“I look forward to working with our members and partners towards our shared vision of ensuring long-term profitable pork production through collaborative research and innovation,” Ferguson said. “The value SIP provides by bringing producer groups and industry partners together across Canada for coordinated research is key to our sector’s success.”

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Ferguson joins René Roy (Vice-Chair) and Jorge Correa (Treasurer) on the SIP Board of Directors’ Executive team. He succeeds outgoing Chair Arno Schober, who has led the Board since 2021.

SIP General Manager Daniel Ramage said Ferguson will continue providing leadership in the Canadian pork research community.

“We also extend our sincere thanks to Arno for his years of service to our organization and commend his efforts driving innovation on behalf of the pork value chain.”

Founded in 2010, Swine Innovation Porc is a not-for-profit organization and represents the Canadian Pork Council and eight provincial pork producer organizations.

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alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com