Our People

Alastair is Head of Production at Sunterra Farms, with previous leadership roles at Maple Leaf Farms, Verus Alliance, and Olymel. Originally from the U.K., he began his career on a multiplier farm and went on to earn a Degree in Animal Science from Harper Adams University. He has experience across indoor, outdoor, and organic production systems. Alastair also contributes to industry leadership as Chair of the Red Deer Swine Technology Workshop, President of the Alberta Pork Congress, and a member of the Pork Committee for the Calgary Stampede.

Jonathan is a Chartered Professional Accountant and partner with Outlook Farms near Nobleford, a 1,900-sow farrow-to-finish operation. In addition to his role on the farm, he works part-time with a public accounting firm, bringing strong financial expertise to both agriculture and business. Jonathan is committed to supporting a resilient and sustainable hog sector and is motivated to contribute to the long-term success of Alberta’s pork industry.

For the past five years, Matthew has been the hog manager at Starland Colony, where he oversees a 550 sow farrow to finish operation. He brings a strong commitment to pork production and a clear passion for helping feed people every day. Matthew joined the Board to contribute to the continued growth and future of pork production in Alberta and beyond. In this role, he will work alongside fellow directors to help guide Alberta Pork’s efforts to support producers and advance the industry across the province.

Originally from Holland, Arnold operates A & A Van Ginkel Pork Farm alongside his wife, Alida. Arnold’s focus on efficiency and responsible production was recognized in 2025 when the farm was named Champion in the Logistics category through the Olymel Reach for the Top Awards, presented at the Alberta Pork Congress. Arnold brings practical experience, a strong work ethic, and a forward-looking perspective that supports the continued progress of Alberta’s pork industry.

Tessy grew up on the farm—an 850-sow farrow-to-finish operation—where she has worked alongside her family for the past six years. She holds two Agricultural Sciences diplomas from Lethbridge College, specializing in Animal Science and Plant and Soil Science. She also works as an evaluator with Alberta’s Green Certificate Program and has served on the Alberta Paint Horse Club board for eight years.

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Mike is the hog boss for Birch Meadows Colony, a 500-sow, farrow-to-finish operation. He has been in the hog industry for more than three decades and hopes to add to the positivity and passion at Alberta Pork. He believes we need to work towards a fair pork price that’s sustainable and transparent between producers and processors.

Darcy joined Alberta Pork in 2010. He has spent much of his career in the agricultural industry, including working for the Alberta Livestock and Meat Agency, the Alberta Livestock Industry Development Fund, Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development and Esso Chemical.

Javier joined Alberta Pork in 2014. He has been involved with the swine industry for many years, working in different capacities across the value chain. Javier leads the Alberta Pork Production Team, working closely with Cristina Neva to serve producers with the best biosecurity, animal welfare and quality assurance practices.

Judit joined Alberta Pork in January 2025. She oversees accounts receivables and payables, manages office contracts, supports data entry, and helps organize industry events. With over a decade of experience supporting Operations and Health & Safety in the oil & gas sector, she brings a strong background in administrative coordination. Dedicated to keeping office operations running smoothly, she works closely with colleagues and is always ready to step in whenever needed. 

Having spent summers on her grandmother’s hobby farm, she always had a “favourite pig” who somehow managed to avoid the butcher’s block until the very end. Outside of work, she enjoys catching up with friends, staying active through swimming, and vacationing in Europe while visiting family.

Salman joined Alberta Pork in May of 2025, bringing a strong background in social media management, graphic design, and digital marketing. His passion lies in helping brands grow through creative storytelling and impactful online strategies. Salman manages Alberta Pork’s digital presence—creating and sharing content, engaging with the community, and ensuring our platforms stay fresh, relevant, and on trend.

Currently completing his Bachelor of Commerce degree in Marketing, Salman combines creativity with strategy to build meaningful connections with our audience. Outside of work, he’s a proud sneakerhead and car enthusiast who enjoys spending time with his family and staying inspired by the ever-evolving world of fashion.

Cris joined Alberta Pork in 2017. She has worked within the agriculture Industry in many different positions, from livestock production to research, and brings a broad set of skills to the Alberta Pork Production Team, working closely with Javier Bahamon.

Jose joined Alberta Pork in June 2020 and is a key member of the Traceability Team. With a background in environmental laboratory work and project management, Jose brings strong data management skills and a keen eye for detail to his role. He works closely with producers to help them meet their traceability requirements and ensures Alberta Pork’s databases remain accurate and reliable for the industry.

A naturally creative person, Jose always has a DIY project on the go—whether it’s woodworking, painting, or cooking something delicious. His love of making and creating shines through in everything he does.

Charlotte joined Alberta Pork in January of 2007. She works directly with producers on a wide range of programs including Swine Traceability, Wild Boar Eradication, and Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (SCAP) grants. In the course of her work, she has liaised with producers, government, and industry partners.

She spends her free time with her horses Bobbie and Kevin.