The California Walnut Board and the California Walnut Commission have selected Billy Ng as vice president of industry and government affairs.
The organizations say this is a newly created role, and Ng will lead activities related to issue management, research and regulatory issues to ensure the walnut industry’s ability to compete globally.
“I am excited for the opportunity to support California walnut growers and their ability to produce, sell and distribute this nutrient-dense food to markets around the world,” Ng said in a news release. “Walnuts have the potential to grow in global consumption and I look forward to taking part in these new opportunities.”
The California Walnut Board and the California Walnut Commission said Ng brings extensive experience in engaging with government agencies, regulatory bodies and industry coalitions to overcome trade barriers and advocate food policy changes. The organizations also said Ng has a strong understanding of regulatory procedural policies; Food and Drug Administration and USDA food programs; and global trade dynamics that affect agriculture.
Ng will help implement strategic objectives in quality assurance, global market access, innovation, sustainability and production and postharvest research, the release said.
Prior to joining the walnut board and commission, Ng worked as the senior manager of global regulatory affairs for Blue Diamond Growers, and he also worked as the manager of regulatory research and development and regulatory and also a manager of technical services.
He was co-chair of the USA Export Group regulatory committee and vice-chair of the Global Technical and Regulatory Affairs Committee for the Almond Board of California.
He holds an MBA in corporate leadership from California State University, Sacramento, a Master of Jurisprudence in global food law from Michigan State University and a Bachelor of Science in food science and technology from the University of California, Davis.
“Billy’s activities will be an integral part of our efforts to proactively monitor and protect the industry’s ability to produce, trade and mitigate risks at state, federal and international levels,” Robert Verloop, executive director and CEO for the CWB and CWC, said in the release. “His expertise in regulatory issues will be essential in providing leadership and solutions on key issues and challenges facing the [California] walnut industry.”
