Nolan Ryan Beef, the company and brand owned by Major League Baseball Hall of Famer and Texas rancher Nolan Ryan, along with other ranching partners, has hired Dr. Sharen Nowak as director of food safety, quality, regulatory (FSQR) and new product development.
Nowak joins the Round Rock, Texas-based company with 28 years of experience in the food industry. Her key responsibilities will be enhancing the company’s food safety initiatives by working with supplier partners to ensure the company is producing the safest and most consistent quality of products in the market.
“Sharen’s vast experience will be instrumental in moving these efforts forward and she will play a critical role in developing and implementing new food safety standards that will take our supply chain to the next level,” said Cody Marburger, chief operating officer of Nolan Ryan Beef. “She will also aid in maintaining our commitment to transparency and supporting our suppliers’ growing emphasis on animal welfare.”
A graduate of Texas A&M University, Nowak received both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in animal science as well as her doctorate in food science. Throughout her career she has had extensive experience working with raw and fully cooked red meat and poultry, processed meats, baked goods, fresh produce and food plant auditing.
“We are thrilled to have Sharen join our team,” said Perry Coughlin, president and CEO of Nolan Ryan Beef. “Food safety is a vital part of our business. Our goal is to always provide safe, flavorful, quality products to our customers. With Sharen’s knowledge and passion for the beef industry, we know that she will bring a fresh perspective and approach to new and innovative food safety practices.”
Nowak and her husband Lanny live in Navasota, Texas, and manage a commercial cow/calf operation. They have a daughter, Katie, who currently attends Baylor University. As a Certified Personal Fitness Chef, Nowak enjoys cooking and baking for her family and friends.
Nolan Ryan Beef branded products are available throughout Texas and select locations in Louisiana at all Kroger supermarkets, as well as several foodservice establishments nationwide. The company’s product offerings include Nolan Ryan 34 Prime Beef, Nolan Ryan Texas Angus Beef and Nolan Ryan Signature products.
