Aaron Whitesel Email & Phone Number

Washington, Us

I am a partner for an elite boutique consulting firm, developing and implementing innovative strategies and policy solutions across the renewable energy, bioproduct, environmental, and agricultural space. My role is to identify and leverage client strengths to build advocacy strategies, influencing public policies that benefit the interests of my client organizations. To accomplish this, I gauge the political climate and develop legislation, regulations, and strategies to meet organizational needs, with strategies that account for the prevailing atmosphere in Washington. I translate client policies into actionable initiatives by developing thought papers and launching issues-based campaigns. Identify and collaborate with policymakers at all government levels to convey client messaging, working bipartisanally with congressional members and staff on important issues. Position clients with regional and state agencies, the private sector, and non-governmental organizations to improve client positioning. I have successfully assisted tech start-ups, Fortune 500 companies, trades, E NGOs, universities, and financiers in navigating complex political environments and policies.  Delivered Energy Title $80 million through mandatory and discretionary appropriations. Expanded the first-ever Energy Title of Farm Bill, delivering billions in economic incentives to farms and rural communities, and the Renewable Fuel Standard requirements for 10% of automobile fuel made with renewable fuels.  Led or contributed to trade associations focused on renewable solar, wind, aviation fuels, farm, and national energy policy, and local, domestic, and international nutrition and development efforts.

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Ca

I guided policy and advocacy strategies for the producer of the world's most significant crop inputs and services contributing to the advancement of the agriculture and trade industry. Proactively assessed emerging issues impacting agriculture and trade, outlining counter strategies and regulatory priorities to ensure preparedness. I have demonstrated proficiencies in crisis communication, public relations, issues management, marketing strategy, media and event planning, and philanthropy. I have also actively participated in non-profit and state association board meetings, building a network with stakeholders. Understanding of fertilizer and agriculture reatail industry.

Indianapolis, Indiana, Us

Leader in Dow/DuPont merger and creation of Corteva.I had operational responsibility for a substantial $4-$6 million annual budget for government affairs, trade association networking, sponsorships, and lobbying by state and federal lobbyists. I supervised ten state and federal contract consultants and hired and trained six senior managers.As a key leader, I orchestrated activities with 50 trade associations to advance company objectives. I guided business leaders on priority policy issues impacting crop protection, trade, biotechnology, advanced breeding, and data applications, resulting in significant profit and savings. My role involved collaborating with governments and policy influencers to promote critical business growth initiatives. This required a focus on key political, social, and advocacy strategies and the development of risk mitigation and engagement plans for key external stakeholders. I administered over $200,000 in PAC solicitations and oversaw legal compliance, and strategic engagement with elected officials

Wilmington, De, Us

I was tasked with developing and implementing Government Affairs strategies to advance strategic business objectives. As the lead federal food and agriculture lobbyist, I actively engage with crucial US federal and state government officials, advocating favorable legislation for Dupont's food and agricultural business units.To meet company objectives, our team proactively built forward-leaning strategies for biotechnology, trade, sustainability, domestic food security, and advanced agricultural technology, ensuring Dupont's readiness for the future. As a testament to our commitment to ethical business practices, I was appointed by senior leadership as a Corporate Ethics Officer to guide and support our employees in upholding the highest standards of business conduct.

Washington, District Of Columbia, Us

I was Senator Lugar's policy advisor on agriculture, environmental, biofuels, domestic and international hunger policies. I was the primary contact with state government leaders, industry, agriculture, child nutrition, energy, and the environment. I led a successful effort to enact the Renewal Fuels Standard with broad bipartisan support to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and expand the nation’s renewable fuels sector, reducing reliance on oil imports. I helped launch a massive bi-partisan campaign for historic farm bill legislation, much of which was included in the subsequent farm bill ultimately passed, improving quality of life and sparking economic vitality in rural communities. I was proud to represent the US Government in Brazil, Costa Rica, and Guatemala on food security and authorization of the Global Food Security Act and for my efforts to facilitate engagement among stakeholders, Congress, and the Administration for the USAID Feed the Future initiative and the passing of the Global Food Security Act.

Doctor Of Law - Jd, Law

Bachelor Of Science - Bs, Agriculture Business And Science

Executive Education, Circular Economy And Sustainability Strategies