LeGrand will be USGC's new director in Mexico.

WASHINGTON, D.C., U.S. — The U.S. Grains Council (USGC) announced on March 31 the promotion of Ryan LeGrand as the organization’s director in Mexico.

“When Ryan came on board as assistant director in Mexico last November, he added valuable grain trade expertise to our global network,” said Tom Sleight, USGC president and chief executive officer. “With this promotion, he will be able to bring that knowledge and experience to his new post, which will further benefit the global grain industry, including our members.”

As director in Mexico, LeGrand will be responsible for identifying and addressing trade, including technical and policy-related factors that impact the market for U.S. grains and co-products in Mexico.

“Mexico is a tremendously important market for U.S. corn, sorghum, barley and their equally important co-products,” Sleight said. “We are encouraged by recent developments in the market and are excited to welcome Ryan on board as director to continue the council’s excellent programs in one of our best markets.”

LeGrand is replacing Julio Hernandez, who stepped down from his post on March 31.

“Ryan has big shoes to fill as Julio’s contributions to both Mexico and the council touched the whole range of livestock industries, feed millers and more,” Sleight said. “I have confidence that he will build off Julio’s work and expand our programs in Mexico to a new level.”

LeGrand previously held positions with Gavilon, Hawkeye Gold and, about 10 years ago, the council as a manager of international operations for distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS).