Animal Health Institute Names Dr. Marie Bucko as First Chief Operating Officer
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Animal Health Institute (AHI) announces that Dr. Marie Bucko will join the organization as its first Chief Operating Officer, effective August 17, 2026. The appointment marks an important milestone in AHI’s continued organizational evolution as the Institute strengthens its executive leadership structure to better serve its members and advance the priorities established by its Board of Directors.
Dr. Bucko joins AHI from Merck Animal Health, where she served as Executive Director of Global Public Policy and Multilateral Engagement. Throughout her career, she has built a reputation for translating complex policy, organizational, and industry priorities into meaningful action while developing high-performing teams and collaborative partnerships. Her experience spans the private sector, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and international animal health policy.
“Marie is an exceptional leader whose experience, judgment, and collaborative approach make her uniquely qualified to serve as AHI’s first Chief Operating Officer,” said Martha Scott, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Animal Health Institute. “The creation of this position reflects our commitment to strengthening AHI’s leadership capacity as our industry and our responsibilities continue to grow. Marie is exactly the leader we were looking for to help lead AHI’s next chapter.”
As Chief Operating Officer, Dr. Bucko will partner with Martha Scott and AHI’s executive leadership team to strengthen organizational operations, coordinate implementation of strategic priorities, and enhance the Institute’s ability to serve its members.
At Merck Animal Health, Dr. Bucko strengthened the company’s global public policy capabilities and expanded engagement with leading international organizations, including establishing the company’s annual event alongside the World Organisation for Animal Health General Session. Earlier, she served as Chief of Staff to the United States Chief Veterinary Officer at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, directing domestic and international strategic priorities and working with government leaders around the world to address transboundary animal diseases, food security, and public health. Before earning her veterinary degree, she also worked within the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Foods and Veterinary Medicine Program.
Known for building collaborative, high-performing teams, Dr. Bucko has consistently focused on strengthening organizations, investing in people, and creating positive workplace cultures. She earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and a Master of Science in Food Safety from Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. She is also a longtime advocate for agricultural youth programs, including FFA and 4-H.
“I am honored to join the Animal Health Institute at such an important time,” said Dr. Bucko. “AHI is a respected voice for the animal health industry, and I look forward to working with Martha Scott, the Board, our member companies, and the AHI staff to strengthen the organization and advance its mission.”
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