IFPA appoints Torres as US government relations VP

The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) has named John Torres as its new vice president of U.S. government relations, a role focused on advancing federal policy for the fresh produce and floral industries.

Torres will start on August 10, reporting to Chief Global Policy Officer Alexis Taylor. His responsibilities include leading the association’s advocacy efforts, managing grassroots engagement, and overseeing FreshPAC, IFPA’s political action committee.

Advocacy as a top priority

IFPA CEO Cathy Burns said members have consistently ranked advocacy as their primary concern. “We’re excited to add a leader and policy expert of John’s caliber to IFPA,” she said. “His experience and strong connections with legislators will further enhance our advocacy efforts on issues ranging from trade to nutrition to production.”

Torres brings nearly two decades of experience in agriculture, food, and environmental policy. Before joining IFPA, he was a principal at the Bockorny Group, a Washington, D.C.-based government relations firm, where he specialized in food, agriculture, and rural development. Prior to that, his tenure at the American Farm Bureau Federation and the Ohio Corn & Wheat Growers Association provided him with firsthand experience in representing the interests of farmers. He also has held leadership roles at the Biotechnology Innovation Organization.

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In his new position at IFPA, Torres succeeds Rebeckah Adcock, who left in April to become chief government relations officer at Feeding America. Adcock’s departure was confirmed through her LinkedIn profile.

A career built on agricultural roots

Torres grew up on a grain farm in northwest Ohio, an experience he says shaped his approach to policy. “The opportunity to be part of IFPA and serve the fresh produce and floral community is exciting, given the focus on human health, environmental sustainability, and farming practices in policy circles today,” he said.

His career began in commodities trading at Archer Daniels Midland. He holds a bachelor’s degree in agriculture from The Ohio State University and the Certified Association Executive credential from the American Society of Association Executives.