This is my favorite photo from the Alltech International Animal Health and Nutrition Symposium. I think I’ll call it “Dr. Lyons.” You can actually see both Doctors, Mark and Pearse. I took the photo when Dr. Pearse Lyons was introducing his son, Dr. Mark Lyons during our final general session. A picture of Mark was projected on the screen. You can click on the photo to see a larger version and it’s also in my photo album.
I think the picture tells a story as pictures so often do. At the beginning of the Symposium Pearse was introduced by Mark (a first) and at the end of the Symposium Mark was introduced by Pearse. These are two very compelling speakers and I would have to say that Alltech has a very solid succession strategy in progress.
I was afraid I wouldn’t get to speak with Dr. Pearse Lyons before leaving today but fortunately I did catch up to him and have a Symposium wrap-up interview for you. All I can say is, “Wow.” Actually, I’ll let Pearse say it in the interview and more than once!
This year’s Symposium was by all measures a success. It was one of the largest in terms of attendance with a huge international component. It is a big boon to the city of Lexington. Dr. Lyons says, “if we all come together, if we are a team and if we realize that no one person can make a team, but a person can be a crucial part of a team, we can go anywhere.”
I mentioned my photo and asked him about the future of Alltech. He says he’s been fortunate to have been able to live the American dream but he says there’s something very special to be able to say to 2,300 employees, “you’re in good hands.” You’ll be able to hear the pride in his voice when he talks about his son.
Of course the interview does not end without a plug for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. Put them on your radar because the whole world will be watching Lexington, KY this fall.