Prof. Dr. Ynte Hein Schukken

CEO

Prof. dr. Ynte Hein Schukken

CEO Royal GD

CEO Animal Health Laboratories (Ireland) Ltd

‘The combination of diagnostics and animal health expertise is what makes GD so unique. This enables us to offer products and services that not only improve animal health, but are also convenient for our customers and generate good financial returns.’ 

Dr. Ynte Schukken is Chief Executive Officer at Royal GD in Deventer, the Netherlands and a Professor of Management of Farm Animal Health at Wageningen University with a courtesy appointment as Professor of Farm Animal Disease Control Programs at the Veterinary College at Utrecht University. Dr. Schukken’s research approach is based on understanding epidemiology and pathobiology of the diseases and population dynamics of infectious diseases in animal populations and in application of epidemiological, statistical and mathematical methods to animal disease research. Ynte worked for many years at Quality Milk Production Services at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY, USA. As an expert in bovine mastitis and infectious diseases he has published extensively in the peer reviewed and public literature. Ynte also has consulted on many dairy farms across the world and taught courses to groups of veterinarians, farmers and students.

Field of expertise: bovine mastitis, endemic infectious diseases of dairy farms, epidemiology, diagnostic tests, animal health programmes

Freya Vaughan MVB MSc

Managing Director

Freya Vaughan MVB MSc brings a wealth of experience in veterinary medicine, diagnostics, regulatory affairs, and herd health management to Animal Health Laboratories.

A qualified veterinary surgeon, she has worked across multiple areas of the animal health sector, combining clinical expertise with a deep understanding of diagnostic testing, disease surveillance, quality management systems, and laboratory operations. Her career has encompassed veterinary practice, herd health consultancy, regulatory compliance, and the delivery of diagnostic and technical services that support animal health, welfare, and productivity.

As Managing Director, she leads the strategic direction and growth of the business, working closely with the laboratory team, veterinary practices, industry partners, and colleagues across the GD Group. Her focus is on delivering high-quality diagnostic and research services, fostering innovation, building strong customer partnerships, and expanding the company’s role in supporting the animal health sector both in Ireland and internationally.

Passionate about advancing animal health through science-led solutions, collaboration, and practical innovation, she is dedicated to helping veterinarians, farmers, researchers, and industry partners address emerging challenges and improve animal health outcomes through reliable diagnostics, applied research, and knowledge-driven services.

Wim Kieftenbeld

Business Development Manager

Wim is based in Royal GD (Netherlands) and works closly with Animal Health Laboratories team in Bandon. He is a regular visitor to Ireland, attending conferences, meeting with vets and industry to ensure that AHL can offer the required services in the Veterinary Diagnostics Field.

Wim has a background in:

• Human and veterinary diagnostics
• Petfood Industry
• Veterinary medicines (companion and livestock animals)

Wim has experience in the following;

• Development / R&D
• Marketing/sales
• Business management
• CEO

Wim is always available to meet with clients for all projects in the veterinary field. From day to day testing to field trials, clinical studies and research.

Sophie McCarthy

Technical Manager

Sophie is responsible for ensuring that resources necessary to meet quality objectives are always available. She is responsible for the general day to day practical supervision and management of the Laboratory facilities, staff (Laboratory Technicians and Laboratory Assistants) and the services offered. She also provides technical guidance to staff and is one of the signatories who approves test reports. She is specifically responsible for the organisation of work priorities and schedules, supervision of tests and personnel undertaking tests.

Don O Driscoll

Driver

Don is our courier driver who joined the team in 2023. He is responsible for our sample collection service that we offer. Don collects from a wide range of locations across the country ensuring that our customers samples securely reach our laboratory.

Kellie Crean

Marketing & Office Administrator

Kellie graduated in 2020 from UCC with a Bachelors of Commerce degree. She has recently joined the company as a marketing assistant and administrator. Kellie is responsible for managing the marketing aspects of the business including maintaining the company’s website and social media platforms. She also performs a range of administration duties and is one of the faces of our customer service team.