The U.S. Grains Council is pleased to announce the promotion of Kurt Shultz to director of global strategies, based in Washington, D.C.

Shultz will be responsible for the development of long-term planning in support of the Council’s domestic and international operations to promote the use of U.S. corn, barley, sorghum and related products worldwide. He will oversee strategic planning, program evaluation and special projects, among other assignments.

Most recently, Shultz served as USGC regional director of the Americas, based in Panama City, Panama. In this capacity he was responsible for carrying out market development and trade activities in the Western Hemisphere on behalf of the feed grains export community.

“Kurt’s extensive international experience, particularly in conceiving and implementing strong export market development programs is a welcome addition to the headquarters staff,” said Tom Sleight, USGC president and CEO. “His strategic vision has helped transform and revitalize the Council’s programs in the Americas and we are looking for Kurt to expand his focus to the Council’s global strategies, positioning and impact.”

Shultz joined the Council in 1999 at the Council’s headquarters office in Washington, D.C., as manager of international operations for the offices based in Latin America, Africa and Mediterranean and the Middle East. In 2003 Shultz assumed the position of regional director for the Council’s office in Africa and the Mediterranean, based in Tunisia, and in 2010 was stationed in Panama as the regional director for the Americas.

Shultz will be transitioning back to the Council’s headquarters in Washington, D.C., this summer.

Congratulations Kurt!