Omega Protein Corporation, a nutritional ingredient company and the leading U.S. producer of Omega-3 fish oil and specialty fish meal products, announced that Dr. Jonathan Shepherd has joined its Board of Directors effective January 1, 2012. Dr. Shepherd has also become Chairman of Omega Protein's Scientific Committee, replacing Dr. William E. M. Lands.  Dr. Lands will continue in his role as a Director on the Board and as a member of the Scientific Committee.

Dr. Shepherd previously served as Director General of The International Fishmeal and Fish Oil Organization (IFFO), an international non-profit organization which represents fish meal and fish oil producers and related trades throughout the world, from 2004 to 2011.  Previously, Dr. Shepherd was Group Managing Director of BioMar, a fish feed company based in Denmark.  Dr. Shepherd also held a series of senior positions with Unilever, Peter Hand and Norsk Hydro in connection with fish farming, pharmaceuticals, and feed manufacturing.  

"We are excited to have Jonathan join the board and welcome his in-depth experience and perspective on the issues affecting the fishing industry worldwide," said Mr. Joe von Rosenberg III, Chairman of the Board. "We have had the pleasure of working with Jonathan for many years while he was at the IFFO and believe he will play an important role as Chairman of our Scientific Committee long-term."

Dr. Shepherd has a BVSc from Liverpool Veterinary School and a PhD from Stirling University.  Dr. Shepherd is a citizen of the United Kingdom.