IDF Welcomes New Director General Nico Van Belzen

Richard Doyle, IDF President, states that "having contributed to the success of an international scientific organization for years and with a good knowledge of the dairy industry, there is no doubt that Dr. Van Belzen will manage IDF with great skill."

3 May 2012 --- The International Dairy Federation’s (IDF) Board of Directors is pleased to announce Dr. Nico van Belzen’s nomination to the position of Director General. He will be taking over the position as of May 2, 2012.

Richard Doyle, IDF President, states that "having contributed to the success of an international scientific organization for years and with a good knowledge of the dairy industry, there is no doubt that Dr. Van Belzen will manage IDF with great skill."

Before getting involved in the dairy industry, Dr. van Belzen led many scientific research projects in European universities. He has authored numerous peer reviewed articles. Later on, he linked his passion for scientific research to nutrition at the helm of Campina’s Research and Development and Quality Control departments. As Executive Director of the European branch of the International Life Sciences Institute (ILSI Europe) since 2003, Dr. Van Belzen has demonstrated his leadership abilities and representation skills when interacting with the World Health Organization, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and Codex Alimentarius to name a few.

"With his scientific knowledge, his management experience and being a talented communicator, we are confident that M. van Belzen will greatly contribute to the success and continued improvement of IDF and the world dairy industry" adds Mr. Doyle.

IDF’s Board of Directors is also grateful for Mr. Christian Robert, Director General since 2005. Mr. Robert has maintained the quality of IDF’s services since announcing his departure last year and has ensured a smooth transition of his functions to Dr. van Belzen.