Katherine DiMatteo Passes the Torch

On March 1, Katherine DiMatteo ended her 16 year tenure as excecutive director of the Organic Trade Association (OTA). DiMatteo, who last September announced her intentions to leave the post, has agreed to stay through June as Senior Advisor to help ensure a smooth transition as Caren Wilcox takes over the role.

DiMatteo has had a profound influence on the development of the organic food industry. During her 16-year tenure, the association supported the passage of the U.S. Organic Foods Production Act and the establishment of the National Organic Standards Board. Also, OTA was a major advocate for the U.S. National Organic Program, which was fully implemented in 2002.

Over the years, DiMatteo has been an outspoken advocate for the organic business community. Her leadership, her unflagging commitment, and her outstanding ability to manage a diverse, growing association helped OTA prosper and grow.

As OTA executive director, she served on United Nations’ Codex Alimentarius committees and U.S. Department of Agriculture-appointed committees concerning trade. In representing OTA both domestically and internationally, DiMatteo became recognized for her efforts to communicate the connection between organic agriculture and a sustainable future, and she rallied support among diverse sectors of the industry and government for the promotion of organic foods and products.

“I’m looking forward to moving on to new life opportunities, utilizing the expertise and experience I have gained over the years,” DiMatteo says of the decision. “I am proud of what OTA has accomplished since 1990 when I came on board as executive director. I am confident that both OTA and I have an abundant and successful future ahead.”