Canada’s dairy sector will see continuity in leadership as Jennifer Hayes begins another four-year term as Chair of the Canadian Dairy Commission (CDC) on December 23, 2025.
Hayes joined the CDC in 2017 and became its first female Chair in 2021. She brings a mix of farm experience, business insight, and national leadership to the role. A third-generation dairy and beef farmer, she co-owns PineCrest Farms in Shigawake, Quebec, with her father and uncle.
Beyond her work on the farm, Hayes holds an MBA from Concordia University and plays an active role in rural development and producer advocacy. Through L’Union des Producteurs Agricoles (UPA), she has worked to strengthen representation for dairy, beef, and regional agriculture.
Her reappointment reflects strong confidence in her ability to guide the CDC through a changing industry. Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Heath MacDonald praised her leadership, noting that her “expertise and commitment” help keep Canada’s dairy system competitive, resilient, and innovative.
The Canadian Dairy Commission oversees milk production, pricing, and market stability — ensuring producers earn a fair return while maintaining steady supply for consumers. Canada’s dairy industry includes more than 9,200 farms and supports about 45,000 jobs, underscoring its vital role in rural communities and the national economy.
