FAIRFAX, Va. — The Professional Pest Management Alliance (PPMA), which serves as the public outreach arm of the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), has announced the appointment of Michael Katz to its board of directors. Katz brings with him 40 years of experience in the structural pest control industry with three decades spent at Western Exterminator Company, where he now serves as president.

Katz began his career in the pest management industry in 1969 when he worked for the Pest Control Operators of California, Inc., (PCOC) California’s industry trade association. He later worked for a pest control company that was purchased by Western Exterminator Company in 1979. After serving a decade as a general manager, Katz was elevated to president of Western.

Katz brings extensive experience in government affairs to his role on the PPMA board of directors. He was involved in numerous landmark legislative and regulatory issues during his tenure as a chairman of PCOC’s Legislative Committee from 1980 to 1990. He has also served eight terms as chairman of NPMA’s Government Affairs Committee, and has served as a committee member since 1985.

“PPMA is thrilled to welcome Mr. Katz to our board,” said Missy Henriksen, executive director of PPMA. “His years of experience and commitment to the pest management industry will be invaluable resources for PPMA. We look forward to working with Mr. Katz to further PPMA’s mission to grow our industry and educate the public about pest management issues.”

The board of directors of PPMA is comprised of representatives from member pest management and chemical manufacturing companies. Board members are appointed by the Executive Committee of PPMA, and meet three times a year to vote on policies, initiatives and budget matters on behalf of all members of PPMA.

“I am honored to accept a seat on a board that is so highly respected in the professional pest management industry,” said Katz. “PPMA’s commitment to growing and protecting the industry is in line with the goals of Western Exterminator Company and I look forward to playing an active role in shaping the future of PPMA and our industry as a board member.”

For more information about PPMA visit www.PPMATools.org or www.npmapestworld.org/PPMA.