United Animal Health Strengthens Leadership With Barker

Barker to lead strategic growth and business transformation

• Bonnie Johnson
• October 13, 2026
• Media Article

United Animal Health has appointed Brian Barker as president and CEO, bringing more than 25 years of agribusiness leadership experience to drive the company's growth, innovation, and strategic direction.

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United Animal Health has named Brian Barker as its new president and chief executive officer, effective Oct. 5. In this role, he will lead the company's strategic direction, operations, and growth efforts while advancing its focus on science-based animal health solutions.
 

Barker brings more than 25 years of leadership experience across the agribusiness, biotechnology, seed, and crop protection sectors. He has extensive experience driving business growth, leading organizational change, and developing high-performing teams.
 

Before joining United Animal Health, Barker served as president of GDM North America, where he helped lead growth and integration activities following the acquisition of AgReliant Genetics. Earlier, as president and CEO of AgReliant Genetics, he oversaw a business transformation that improved profitability, strengthened key partnerships, enhanced company culture, and positioned the organization for future growth. He also held senior leadership positions with Corteva Agriscience and Dow AgroSciences.
 

Ellen Crabb, chair of the board of directors, said Barker was selected following an extensive search process and highlighted his strong record of leadership, growth management, and team development. She noted that his agricultural expertise, customer-focused approach, and strategic vision make him well suited to guide the company through its next phase of growth.
 

Barker's experience includes business operations, technology development, commercial leadership, international markets, mergers and acquisitions, and organizational transformation.
 

Expressing enthusiasm about his new position, Barker said he looks forward to working with employees, customers, and industry partners to continue advancing animal agriculture through science and innovation while building on the company's existing success.
 

Barker holds a Master of Business Administration and a bachelor's degree in business marketing from Indiana University's Kelley School of Business. He has also completed executive leadership programs at the Thunderbird School of Global Management and the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.
 

Photo Credit: United Animal Health