Ryan Olson appointed as new Director of Trade Policy at US Wheat Associates
Olson’s responsibilities include analysing trade policy constraints and opportunities, keeping staff and member states updated on the latest developments.
USA – US Wheat Associates (USW), the export market development organization for the U.S. wheat industry, has named Ryan Olson as its new Director of Trade Policy.
Ryan Olson joined the staff of U.S. Wheat Associates (USW) as the director of trade policy on August 25, 2025. Hesteps into this critical role with a robust background in agricultural trade and policy, poised to address key issues impacting U.S. wheat exports, including trade policy, transportation, production technologies, sustainability, and food aid programs.
In his new position, Olson will focus on analyzing trade policy constraints and identifying opportunities to enhance the global competitiveness of U.S. wheat. His responsibilities include keeping USW staff and member states informed about regulatory changes and emerging trade developments, as well as promoting wheat utilization in international food assistance programs.
His work will play a pivotal role in strengthening the U.S. wheat supply chain and expanding market access for American wheat farmers.
“We’re excited to have Ryan on board after an extensive search. Ryan brings direct experience supporting overseas teams, responding to customer needs, and collaborating with the U.S. grain industry to solve technical problems and remove barriers to trade. His expertise will be invaluable as we navigate the complexities of global trade policy,” said Dalton Henry, USW Vice President of Policy and Communications.
Olson’s appointment follows a distinguished career in agricultural trade and policy. Most recently, he served as the Industry Affairs Manager at the U.S. Soybean Export Council, where he tackled market access challenges and worked to strengthen trade relationships. Prior to that, Olson was the Director of Operations at the North American Export Grain Association, managing a range of programs and policy initiatives critical to the grain export industry.
Earlier in his career, Olson honed his policy expertise as a Research Associate at The Heritage Foundation’s Centre for Trade and Economics, where he analyzed trade and economic policies. He also served as a Staff Assistant for former U.S. Congressman Cory Gardner of Colorado, gaining valuable experience in legislative processes and constituent engagement.
A Virginia native, Olson holds a master’s degree in International Commerce and Policy from George Mason University and a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from James Madison University. His academic background, combined with his professional experience, equips him with a deep understanding of global trade dynamics and the technical intricacies of the grain industry.
“Ryan comes to us with a great set of previous experience and technical knowledge. His collective work gives him a unique perspective, particularly from a grain exporter’s vantage point, allowing him to share critical insights with our staff and customers to support the U.S. wheat supply chain,” Henry added.
US Wheat Associates represents the interests of U.S. wheat producers in more than 100 countries, working to develop reliable export markets and advocate for policies that ensure the global competitiveness of U.S. wheat.
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