The International Fresh Produce Association has appointed Samantha Ayoub as director of workforce and business policy on the U.S. Government Relations team effective Feb. 23, the Washington, D.C.-based trade association announced Jan. 28.
Ayoub will lead IFPA’s policy and regulatory efforts on workforce, labor, immigration, transportation, logistics and broader business issues shaping the fresh produce and floral supply chain. She will also serve as the government relations liaison for IFPA’s floral portfolio.
Background and experience
Ayoub brings extensive expertise in agricultural economics, workforce and labor policy and business operations affecting the food and agriculture sector. She most recently served as environment, labor and taxes economist at the American Farm Bureau Federation. She previously held roles with U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service and in plant pathology research.
Ayoub holds a bachelor’s degree in agricultural and applied economics from the University of Georgia and a master’s degree in agricultural and resource economics from Colorado State University.
“Samantha’s expertise and experience make her a tremendous addition to our team,” said Rebeckah F. Adcock, VP of U.S. government relations at IFPA. “She will be instrumental in advancing policy priorities that strengthen our industry and support our members across the supply chain.”
Role focus
In her new position, Ayoub will ensure members’ voices are represented before federal policymakers on issues critical to fresh produce and floral operations. Her portfolio encompasses the full range of business policy concerns from workforce availability and immigration reform to transportation infrastructure and logistics challenges.
“I’m thrilled to join IFPA and contribute to shaping policies that impact the fresh produce and floral sectors,” Ayoub said. “I look forward to working closely with members and policymakers to make a positive difference and increase the reach of fresh produce and flowers worldwide.”
The International Fresh Produce Association is the largest and most diverse international association serving the entire fresh produce and floral supply chain. IFPA represents member companies from small family businesses to the largest international corporations throughout the global fresh fruit and vegetable supply chain, including growers, shippers, fresh-cut processors, wholesalers, distributors, retailers, foodservice operators, industry suppliers and allied associations.
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