WASHINGTON, Dec. 19, 2014 – The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) today announced the promotion of Jon Doggett to executive vice president, effective January 1.

In his new role, Doggett will lead efforts to expand NCGA’s alliances and strategic partnerships, and elevate its national profile. Doggett will continue to manage the organization’s 10-person Washington, D.C. office and lead its public policy efforts.

“Now, more than ever, corn farmers need to be expanding our reach to strengthen our alliances beyond the Beltway,” said NCGA CEO Chris Novak. “Jon Doggett is one of Washington’s smartest political minds, and has a track record of building solid political alliances in Washington. With the issues facing corn farmers today, Jon is the perfect person to lead efforts to grow our strategic alliances and tell the story of America’s corn farmers to a wider audience.”

Doggett has served as vice president of public policy since July 2002, where he directs all aspects of NCGA efforts involving the federal government. He was also named one of Washington’s Most Influential Lobbyists by The Hill newspaper.

Raised on his family’s ranch in Montana, Jon has substantial knowledge of production agriculture and more than 25 years of agricultural policy experience. His ability to look at issues with a fresh perspective and find a common ground has been the cornerstone of Doggett’s career.

“In a town that is all too often divided, Jon has the unique ability to bring people together, find mutual understanding, and be the bridge between farmers and lawmakers,” said Novak.

Like what you see on the Agri-Pulse website? See even more ag and rural policy news when you sign up for a four-week FREE trial Agri-Pulse subscription.

Before joining NCGA, Doggett spent 11 years at the American Farm Bureau Federation, where he was the organization’s lead lobbyist on a number of public policy issues, including federal lands, climate change, land use, energy and endangered species.

Doggett also worked for the National Cattleman’s Association/Public Lands Council and served as senior legislative sssistant for former Montana Congressman Ron Marlenee. In 2007 he was appointed by USDA Secretary Mike Johanns to the Agricultural Technical Advisory Committee for Trade.

“I am excited to take on a greater leadership role with NCGA,” Doggett said. “Farmers have a great story to tell on energy, innovation and technology, conservation, and revitalizing rural America. We must find new ways to reach policymakers, thought leaders, and consumers to ensure they’re hearing those stories. We also need to engage the next generation of corn farmers. The face of farming – like the face of America – is changing, and our organization needs to reflect that diversity. I look forward to working with Chris to address these challenges.”

Doggett is a certified Sea Kayak Instructor. He resides in Northern Virginia with his wife, Nancy. They have two adult children and one grandchild.

About NCGA

Founded in 1957, the National Corn Growers Association represents 42,000 dues-paying corn farmers nationwide and the interests of more than 300,000 growers who contribute through corn checkoff programs in their states. NCGA and its 48 affiliated state organizations work together to create and increase opportunities for corn growers. For more information, visit www.ncga.com.

#30

For more news, go to www.agri-pulse.com