(
http://blogs.desmoinesregister.com)
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey announced that he has hired former Monsanto lobbyist Michael Naig as Deputy Secretary for the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.
Naig previously served as Monsanto's Regional Manager of Government Affairs, the Assistant Director of the Iowa Biotechnology Association, and Director of Public Policy for the Agribusiness Association of Iowa. He also represents Monsanto as the Second Vice President of the Iowa Seed Association.
"Mike will be a tremendous asset to the Department and I'm glad he agreed to join our team," Northey said. "His background and experience make him a natural fit for the Department."
"I look forward to supporting the important work of the Department to promote Iowa agriculture, serve Iowans and protect our natural resources," Naig said.
Naig's duties as Deputy Secretary will include assisting in managing the budget and personnel of the Department. His employment for the Department will begin on September 4.
