Introducing Julie Koehler: The New Head of Gender (Data in Livestock Development) at SEBI-Livestock
SEBI-Livestock has welcomed Julie Koehler to their team as the Head of Gender (Data in Livestock Development). With 20 years of experience spanning humanitarian response, development, and academia, Julie brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the organization. Let’s get to know her better through this Q&A.
Can you tell us about your role and what drives you in your work?
As the new Head of Gender (Data in Livestock Development), I will lead collaborations that support the use of data towards transformative change. I’m passionate about leading behaviour change processes that support deeper inclusion and gender integration within teams. Over the years, I’ve worked to build and deliver systems, processes, and structures that help integrate gender across portfolios, from country teams to global initiatives.
My approach involves working with teams across various sectors and contexts to overcome challenges and implement solutions. I see myself as a convener of people and a facilitator of collaborative and empowering spaces.
What excited you about the opportunity to work with SEBI-Livestock?
There were several aspects that really drew me to this role. I was excited by the chance to work with a team already doing excellent work with data, but eager to push towards even greater transformative impact, especially in relation to gender. The opportunity to build a gender transformative lens with a team that’s hungry to grow and learn was incredibly appealing.
I also saw the potential for a ripple effect. Working with the team to transform data connected to the livestock sector within an influential donor environment is exciting. I’m looking forward to connecting with livestock experts from across the world to ensure market gains contribute to equitable human wellbeing at a household level. I’m energized by the prospect of collaborating with these experts to ensure their work has a meaningful human impact. Additionally, I’m eager to reshape our approach to impact assessment by placing greater emphasis on the individuals we aim to support.
What are your priorities for the next six months?
I’ve got a few key focus areas. First and foremost is co-creating and beginning implementation of a cross-organizational strategy. This strategy will meet people and teams where they are, incorporating practical solutions in their work that drive gender transformative change in the livestock sector.
I’m also keen on finding small tweaks that create big impact. Additionally, I want to make gender and inclusion work accessible and demystified. My goal is for livestock researchers and practitioners to find practical ways to see where their work can lead to gender transformative outcomes.
You’ve worked on topics relating to gender, youth, resource management, economic development, and economic value chains for many years. How do you feel about working on a livestock data project and with members of the Livestock Data for Decisions network, which SEBI-L supports?
I feel energized! This role allows me to focus and dig deep with teams to find solutions that are useful beyond individual projects. I’m excited about driving behaviour change across the sector.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
A: Two things come to mind. First, livestock work is connected to so many different sectors – health, nutrition, market systems development, resilience, and the list goes on. The ripple effect of focusing on gender in this space, particularly with data, feels far-reaching.
Second, this feels like a full circle moment for me. I grew up on a farm in Texas, and now, four decades later, I’m returning to the livestock space as an adult. It just feels right.
For further information, please contact:
The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus
Bush Farm Road
Midlothian, EH25 9RG
Director of Innovation: Val Hughes-White
T: +44 (0)131 651 9000