The American Kennel Club® is pleased to announce the appointment of John Wade to Director of Judging Operations. Wade’s background includes 50 years of involvement in the sport and more than 20 years of business and management experience from various professional roles in highly competitive industries.

“We are pleased to welcome John to his new position with the AKC,” said Darrell Hayes, VP Dog Show Judges. “His deep knowledge of the inner workings of the sport, tenure as an esteemed AKC judge and career in business management brings extensive experience to the Judges department.”

John Wade became active in purebred dogs in 1959 when he purchased a Dachshund for his mother on Mother’s day. Early on, he worked for an AKC Licensed All Breed Handler and two terrier breeding kennels, eventually becoming a Handler. He also enjoyed success as a breeder and exhibitor of Dachshunds. Wade further pursued his interest and became a multiple-group judge. Wade joined the AKC staff in 1999 as a member of the executive field staff covering national specialty shows, a position he held for two years before returning to his career as an AKC judge. He gained approval to judge Best in Show, the Hound, Terrier and Working groups, some Herding breeds and Junior Showmanship.

Wade’s background includes extensive club affiliation having held every conceivable office in all-breed and specialty dog clubs, including The Dachshund Club of America.  Throughout his years in the sport and despite his busy judging schedule, Wade remained connected to and committed to breeding, raising and exhibiting Dachshunds.