New executive director at sweet potato organization

The American Sweet Potato Marketing Institute (ASPMI) has hired an executive director.

Jeff Smutny was the global director of marketing and regulatory affairs at the American Pecan Council. He also worked in various roles for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, providing regulatory oversight of all 29 federal marketing orders.

With more than 30 years of experience in global marketing and leading successful business operations, Smutny has dedicated his career to improving trade associations, demonstrating a commitment and passion for his work, Barnes said in the release.

“Jeff has extensive experience working with and for farmers,“ Johnny Barnes, ASPMI president, said in a news release. “We could not be more excited to add Jeff to our Team as we continue to expand and meet the needs of our membership as well as consumers around the globe. We are looking forward to much success with Jeff at the helm.”

Smutny was also in political consulting. He began his career directing a large advertising agency in California’s Central Valley and started a marketing consulting firm in 1988.

His project management skills have led agricultural associations in various areas, including strategic planning, regulatory affairs, brand development, industry outreach, advertising & promotions, Federal program compliance, category research, public relations, and crisis management, according to the release.

“I’m thrilled to be part of this team and humbled that ASPMI has selected me to help strategically lead this industry. American sweetpotatoes have a fascinating story that perfectly fits into a healthy diet. I am excited to share this nutritious and delicious superfood with consumers, increasing consumption worldwide.”

Smutny graduated from California State University, Fresno. He and his wife, Debi, split their time between Monterey, California, and Lake Tahoe.

The American Sweet Potato Marketing Institute is a non-profit organization that promotes the sweet potato industry to customers and consumers globally and promotes the farming and harvesting of sweet potatoes in seven states: North Carolina, California, Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas, Georgia and Washington. ASPMI supports research in the science of sweet potato horticulture practices, processes and technologies.