The American Soybean Association (ASA) announced today the selection of Wendy Brannen as director of policy communication, based in its Washington, D.C. office.

“Wendy brings a breadth of knowledge and experience in agriculture, media and marketing to our communications team,” said ASA CEO Ryan Findlay. “We look to her leadership and innovative spirit to take us to the next level as we set the course for future soybean policy.”

Brannen is a marketing communications leader with 12 years of experience managing non-profit marketing organizations and related promotional programs. She comes to ASA after two years serving as executive director of the Lodi Winegrape Commission in California, where she oversaw communications strategies, research projects, export initiatives and member relations. She previously directed consumer health marketing and public relations at the U.S. Apple Association. She also served as executive director of the Vidalia® Onion Committee, where she developed strategic marketing programs.

Brannen has a bachelor’s degree in business administration and finance from the University of Georgia and a bachelor’s degree in communications and broadcasting from the University of North Florida.

Brannen is also an experienced broadcast reporter, producer and anchor.

“Wendy will play a key role in identifying strategies for ASA to communicate with increasingly food-conscious consumers as well as with the soybean farmers we represent and with government policymakers,” said John Gordley, director of ASA’s Washington office. “We welcome her to our very talented communications staff, and look forward to writing the next chapter in the growth of the U.S. soybean industry.”