SAN ANTONIO — The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) presented former Leprino Foods president and chief executive officer Mike Durkin and former Galloway Company CEO Tim Galloway with the association’s Laureate Award, honoring the retired executives for their prolonged contributions to the dairy industry.
Durkin, who recently retired after leading Leprino for a decade, and Galloway, who still serves as chairman of Galloway Company, received the honor during IDFA’s annual event, Dairy Forum.
IDFA president and CEO Michael Dykes noted the Laureate Award is the association’s highest honor, and a way of recognizing recipients’ legacy of leadership.
“Mike Durkin and Tim Galloway exemplify the finest attributes of the dairy industry — unwavering leadership, a commitment to innovation, the highest character, and a deep commitment to family and the family businesses that make this industry great,” Dykes said.
Durkin joined Leprino in 2011 and spent the next several years helping shape its strategic vision, the company said. Leprino credited Durkin with making significant improvements in employee engagement as president and CEO, and said he “guided transformative initiatives that advanced Leprino’s industry leadership.” His career highlights accomplishments at PepsiCo, Inc., where he became president of North American field operations for Pepsi beverages. He also served as a vice chair and executive committee member for IDFA, a board member for the Global Dairy Platform, and chair for the Innovation Center for US Dairy.
“For decades, the dairy industry has worked tirelessly to drive innovation, develop new products and expand market opportunities,” Durkin said. “Through the steadfast partnership between the industry, dairy processors and dairy farmers, we’ve delivered nutritious and sustainable dairy foods, fueled economic growth, and strengthened communities across the nation. It’s been a true privilege to contribute to this vital work, and I am extremely humbled to be recognized by my peers with this prestigious award."
CEO for Galloway Company from 2000 up until his recent retirement, Galloway’s career with the family business started in 1972. Through the years, which began in general labor during summers, Galloway also held positions in sales and became president in 1989. Plus, he served as chair of the member board for Classic Mix Partners LLC (now a wholly owned business unit of Galloway Company) from 1997 to 2010.
“I am grateful to my wife, children and third generation family members who have supported me, my teammates who have driven the business to outstanding accomplishments, and, of course, to Grandpa Ed and his three sons, who are the shoulders we stand on,” Galloway said. “I’m so excited to see where the fourth generation will take us.”
He added: “Finally, I am thankful to my IDFA family, who have shared technical knowledge, advice and encouragement in lobbying and federal order hearings, and opportunities for friendships with so many great dairy folks throughout the country.”