Turlock milk facility names CEO

A new company planning to build a state-of-the-art powdered milk facility in a Turlock industrial park has hired its first chief executive officer. Patricia Smith will oversee operations at Valley Milk LLC.

According to a news release sent from the company, Smith has 25 years of global experience for companies including Fonterra, a multinational dairy company, and Roquette Group, a global ingredient supplier.

“It is very exciting to join Valley Milk on the ground floor as we construct the new plant, staff up for our opening and begin to secure market opportunities around the world,” Smith said in the release. “There is a growing demand for powdered milk products throughout the United States and around the world as the population continues to grow along with the need for more dietary protein and nutrients which powdered milk delivers.”

Plans call for Valley Milk to employ 55 people at its plant in Turlock’s Regional Business Park. A groundbreaking is set for April 29.

Giant dairy cooperative Hilmar Cheese also recently opened a milk powder plant in Turlock.

This story was originally published March 31, 2016 at 3:26 PM with the headline "Turlock milk facility names CEO."