"I'm thrilled to be part of this team and humbled that ASPMI has selected me to help strategically lead this industry," said Smutny. "American sweet potatoes 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."
Prior to joining the sweet potato industry, Smutny served as the global director of marketing and regulatory affairs for the 4,000-grower-strong pecan industry. He also served in various roles for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, providing regulatory oversight of all 29 federal marketing orders. Smutny also spent time in political consulting, managing marketing for various political candidates, including former state governors Arnold Schwarzenegger and Dave Heineman.
Smutny began his career directing a large advertising agency in California's Central Valley. He started a marketing consulting firm in 1988, which he still operates today and retains clients from the first day he opened the firm for business. His clients have come from diverse industries, including agribusiness/consumer goods, outdoor recreation, automotive, commercial real estate, hospitality and political campaigning.
“Jeff has extensive experience working with and for farmers, “said ASPMI President Johnny Barnes, “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 graduated from California State University-Fresno. He and his wife, Debi, split their time between Monterey, CA, and Lake Tahoe, which has made it easy to lure their son and daughter to visit.
