Andrew Jerome Appointed Senior VP at International Dairy Foods Association
The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) announced the appointment of Andrew Jerome as the senior vice president of strategic communications, effective March 16, 2026. Jerome will also assume the position of executive director of the IDFA Foundation, succeeding Matt Herrick. He will report directly to Michael Dykes, the president and CEO of IDFA, and become part of the association's executive leadership team.
Jerome has been a crucial figure in enhancing the visibility and influence of the U.S. dairy industry, navigating significant periods of growth and change. His efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic and the avian influenza outbreak have been pivotal. Jerome played a key role in IDFA's comprehensive rebranding and the integration of digital tools for improved industry advocacy and member value. Dykes commented, "We are excited to welcome Andrew to the IDFA Executive Team as senior vice president of strategic communications. He has been instrumental in positioning IDFA as the authoritative voice of the dairy industry."
In his new role, Jerome will be responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive communications strategy to promote and protect the image of dairy. He will continue to position IDFA as a trusted advisor and thought leader across agriculture, food and beverage, and public policy communities. As executive director of the IDFA Foundation, Jerome will guide its strategic direction to advance community impact and public trust in dairy.
Jerome expressed his enthusiasm for the new roles, stating, "I'm honored to step into these roles at a pivotal time for our industry. Dairy plays an essential role in nourishing families, supporting rural communities, and driving economic growth."
Before joining IDFA in 2020, Jerome served as director at Michael Torrey Associates, providing policy and communications counsel to various stakeholders in the food industry. He previously worked as the communications director for the National Farmers Union. Jerome holds a degree in public relations with a focus on American politics and policy from West Virginia University.
IDFA, representing the nation's dairy manufacturing and marketing industry, supports over 3 million jobs generating $198 billion in wages and $779 billion in economic impact. The organization covers a diverse membership, from multinational organizations to single-plant companies, involved in the production and marketing of milk, cheese, and other dairy products worldwide.
