President
CurrentStrategic Planning* Collaborates with FPAA Board to identify priorities and develop plans to achieve the FPAA goals.* To promote economic growth, created a PR and public policy campaign to secure funding for a $100 million infrastructure project.Public Relations* Following threats to close the border, generated thousands of positive impressions for FPAA and US-Mexico trade by crafting and disseminating media releases and by giving interviews. * Promotes the association and educates stakeholders through regular speaking engagements. * Planned and facilitated multiple crisis communications and media relations seminars for staff and members. Government Relations* By educating members of Congress, secured nearly 40 bi-partisan Congressional signatures for a letter against the inclusion of a seasonality provision in the USMCA.* During the NAFTA renegotiation, attended six of seven negotiating rounds — building coalitions with elected officials, corporations, and organizations. Prevented the inclusion of a seasonality provision in the final USMCA — FPAA’s top priority during the negotiation. * Works with FDA and its Mexican counterpart SENASICA to promote binational food safety cooperation.* Provided expert testimony before the U.S. International Trade Commission in three cases. Presented evidence on the economic impact of trade agreements.Fiscal Responsibility & Budget Oversight* Oversee an annual budget of $1.3 million and report audited financials to the Board of Directors.Given the frequent threats facing FPAA, increased the association’s emergency fund by $500,000 — a growth of 50%. Membership Recruitment & Retention* Increased membership dues revenue by 27%.* Revamped the annual report to serve as a recruitment and retention tool.* Created multiple programs to help with member issues — from complying with regulations and addressing food safety concerns to human resources management and improving energy efficiency.
