As Executive Vice President of the California Cattlemen’s Association, Matt Byrne serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the CCA as well as the CCA Feeder Council. In addition, Matt is the lead spokesperson for CCA and directs staff in advocating for CCA policy. As Executive Vice President, Matt reports to CCA and Feeder Council members, boards and officers.
Not only does Matt act as a voice at the state level for the association’s members and officers, he also oversees planning, finances, membership and personnel for CCA.
He said he enjoys the challenge of working in the regulatory, legislative and business climate in California where agriculturists are world leaders in food and fiber production as well as in regulatory oversight.
Matt graduated Magna Cum Laude from Santa Clara University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in Finance and Computer Science. After graduation, Matt moved to Washington, D.C., where he took a job as a legislative aide to Congressman Greg Walden and managed a portfolio of issues relating to agriculture and natural resources in addition to many other issues.In his position he worked to advance the interests of those in ranching country of southern, central and eastern Oregon.
Originally from Tulelake, Matt comes from a fourth generation cow/calf operation in Modoc County. Matt began his current job at CCA in June of 2006 and said his decision to work on behalf of a great industry and group of people from his home state was an easy one.
He said the work CCA does each day in Sacramento, Washington, D.C., and around the state helps ensure that the western heritage will continue in California.
Matt’s job helps coordinate efforts to effectively lobby at the state, local and federal level and provide outstanding service to all of our members when they have questions or issues that affect them or their operations.
“We’re working hard to keep ranchers ranching in this state,” Matt said. “We want to make it possible for California’s family ranchers to pass this legacy on to the next generation.”
