The American Livestock Markets and Dealers Association (ALMDA) has named Dale Sandlin as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective July 6, 2026.

Sandlin succeeds Tim Niedecken, who has served as CEO for the past three years. During his tenure, Niedecken helped strengthen the association, expand member services, and increase ALMDA's presence on legislative and regulatory issues affecting the livestock marketing industry. He will continue serving the association as a member of the ALMDA Board of Directors.

Bryan Forester, ALMDA President and owner of Emory Livestock Auction and Athens Commission, thanked Niedecken for his leadership and welcomed Sandlin to the organization.

"We greatly appreciate everything Tim has done to help move our association forward," Forester said. "His leadership has strengthened the services we provide our members and expanded our advocacy efforts on behalf of the livestock marketing industry. We are excited to welcome Dale and look forward to the experience, relationships, and leadership he brings to our association."

Sandlin brings extensive experience in agricultural association management and livestock industry advocacy. Most recently, he served six years as Executive Vice President of the Georgia Cattlemen's Association after previously serving four years as Managing Director of the Hawaii Cattlemen's Council.

Sandlin began his career with USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS), working on the Karnal Bunt Plant Protection and Quarantine program in Texas. He also served as an intern for Congressman Stevan Pearce (R-NM) on Capitol Hill in 2006. Before entering association management, Sandlin spent seven years as Director of Marketing for Oldham Goodwin Group's commercial real estate portfolio in College Station, Texas.

A native of Olney, Texas, Sandlin now resides with his family on their farm near Forsyth, Georgia. He holds both bachelor's and master's degrees from Texas A&M University.

"I am excited for this opportunity and look forward to serving the livestock industry through one of its most essential segments: livestock markets and dealers," Sandlin said. "Livestock markets and dealers provide a vital link between producers and the marketplace. I look forward to working alongside our members to address the challenges they face while continuing to strengthen the services they provide to livestock producers across the country."

In addition to leading ALMDA, Sandlin will also serve as Executive Director of the Livestock Marketing Association of Texas (LMAT). He will assume both positions on July 6, 2026.