The International Dairy Federation (IDF) board of directors has appointed Laurence Rycken as new director general, effective April 1, 2024.

Laurence Rycken has been serving IDF for the last 12 years as science and standards program manager, championing the role of milk and dairy in nutrition security. Rycken is thrilled to extend her contribution to the organization as director general. Already bringing with her an in-depth knowledge of the organization, fostering connections with the IDF community and proficiency in dairy, she aims to leverage the current position of the federation as the leading source of expertise and scientific knowledge of the global dairy sector.

Her appointment follows the upcoming departure of the current director general, Caroline Emond, who is stepping down from the position after a successful six-year tenure.

The board of directors thanked Caroline Emond for her outstanding performance in leading IDF from 2018 to 2024, and the general assembly appointed her honorary member of IDF at its 2023 IDF World Dairy Summit.

Emond’s achievements include positioning IDF as a leading and influential international organization, an active engagement with members and stakeholders, launching the IDF Dairy Innovation Awards and the Women in Dairy initiatives, as well as guiding and leading a dynamic and professional head office team. Emond will remain in office until March 31.

The board of directors wished Laurence Rycken every success in her new position and all the best to Caroline Emond in her future endeavors.