WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ted McKinney, USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, will deliver the 2018 Washington Conference Global Trade Symposium keynote on Monday, September 24. Under Secretary McKinney leads the development and implementation of USDA’s trade policy, oversees and facilitates foreign market access, and promotes opportunities for U.S. agriculture through various trade programs and high-level government negotiations.
The all-new Global Trade Symposium, a feature of the Washington Conference, will bring together industry executives and government leaders as they take a deep dive into the future of trade in the fresh produce industry and how it affects business. Key discussion topics include the impact of trade negotiations, disputes and potential solutions that can serve global consumers and producers.
“With trade implications challenging the fresh produce industry around the world, Under Secretary McKinney will set the stage as the keynote for this inaugural event,” said United Fresh President & CEO Tom Stenzel. “He’ll draw upon his storied career and share insights that will allow the industry to advance their global business with confidence.”
In 2014, McKinney was appointed by then-Governor Mike Pence to serve as Director of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture, a position he held until joining USDA in 2017. His career also included 19 years with Dow AgroSciences and 14 years with Elanco, a subsidiary of Eli Lilly and Company, where he was Director of Global Corporate Affairs. His industry and civic involvement has included service on the National FFA Convention Local Organizing Committee, Indiana State Fair Commission, and Purdue College of Agriculture Dean’s Advisory Council, as well as on the boards of directors of the International Food Information Council, the U.S. Meat Export Federation, and International Federation of Animal Health.
McKinney grew up on a family grain and livestock farm in Tipton, Indiana, and was a 10-year 4-H member and an Indiana State FFA Officer. He graduated from Purdue University with a B.S. degree in Agricultural Economics in 1981 and received the G.A. Ross Award as the outstanding senior male graduate. In 2002, he was named a Purdue Agriculture Distinguished Alumnus and, in 2004, received an FFA Honorary American degree.
Each year, the Washington Conference brings together hundreds of produce leaders from all sectors of the industry for education on critical industry issues. Attendees take part in meetings with members of Congress and their staff, as well as top regulatory officials. To register for the 2018 Washington Conference taking place September 24-26 in Washington, DC, visit www.unitedfresh.org or contact Angela Tiwari at 202-303-3416.
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About United Fresh Produce Association
Founded in 1904, the United Fresh Produce Association brings together companies across every segment of the fresh produce supply chain, including growers, shippers, fresh cut processors, wholesalers, distributors, retailers, foodservice operators, industry suppliers and allied associations.
We empower industry leaders to shape sound government policy. We deliver the resources and expertise companies need to succeed in managing complex business and technical issues. We provide the training and development individuals need to advance their careers in produce. Through these endeavors, we unite out industry with a common purpose – to build long-term value for our members and grow produce consumption. For more information, visit www.unitedfresh.org
Source: United Fresh Produce Association
