ROBERT AHERN, PH.D.

Board Member

Director for WTO Agricultural Affairs at Office of the U.S. Trade Representative

Robert led the development, implementation, and evaluation of programs (approximately $5,000,000 annually) to strengthen animal health, plant protection and food safety systems for 34 Member Countries in the Americas. He developed science-based advice and policy recommendations for counterparts throughout the Americas and around the world.  Robert also identified, secured and managed financial resources to support a diverse portfolio of strategic capacity building activities. He worked to foster and strengthen relationships with current and potential partners in National Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Services, international organizations, and agri-businesses.  His responsibilities also included management and coaching of an international team of twelve technical specialists and administrative staff to ensure the timely, cost effective, and efficient implementation of high-impact capacity building actions and programs throughout the Americas.