SIOUX FALLS, SOUTH DAKOTA, U.S. — POET announced on July 3 that it has hired Rob Walther as director of federal affairs, tasked with opening a POET office in Washington, D.C., U.S.

Walther will represent POET and highlight the value of domestic, renewable biofuel in talks with members of Congress, their staffs and federal agencies regulating renewable fuels.

“My career has always centered on work to create a sustainable transportation fuel sector,” Walther said. “POET’s goals align perfectly with that, and I’m excited to be part of their efforts.”

“Rob’s diverse policy experience puts him in a great position to communicate how biofuels fit into the national and world energy picture,” said Kyle Gilley, senior vice-president of public policy and corporate affairs. “I’m excited we are able to bring his talents to POET.”

Previously, Walther held several energy-related policy positions in Washington, D.C., including deputy director for energy at Third Way, a D.C. organization dedicated to promoting moderate policies; professional staff for the Committee on Science and Technology in the U.S. House of Representatives; and associate at the firm Wexler & Walker, PPA.