Mr Burdell is a Certified Public Accountant with 34 years of finance and accounting experience in the poultry industry. In his new position, he will manage the Association's financial operations, including investments, budget control, audits and purchasing. He will be responsible for the development, continuing assessment, refinement and integrity of financial and business practices and procedures.

Mr Burdell began his poultry industry career in accounting with Gold Kist in 1976, ultimately advancing to Controller of Poultry Operations. He was responsible for the development and direction of accounting systems, budgets, and projections of poultry operations. Following the purchase of Gold Kist by Pilgrim's Pride in January 2007, he worked with Pilgrim's as Controller for their distribution company and fresh food service plants.

He received a bachelor of business administration in accounting from Georgia State University. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Georgia Society of Certified Public Accountants.

"I am pleased to join the USPoultry team," Mr Burdell said. "The Association is made up of professionals in their fields who are dedicated to the support of the industry."

John Starkey, Association president, commented: "US Poultry & Egg Association is excited to welcome Seals to our organisation. We're confident that his strong financial background, coupled with his extensive industry experience will enhance USPoultry's ability to serve the industry."