WASHINGTON, DC — Edelman has tapped Darci Vetter, a former US Trade Representative office leader, to lead the agency’s Washington public affairs practice.

Vetter has been formally named the office’s GM of public affairs. She also will serve as vice chair for agriculture, food and trade, leading the firm’s push to strengthen work for clients in the commodities, supply chain, agribusiness and global trade sectors.

Vetter most recently worked as a consultant on international trade for food and agriculture, developing strategies for agricultural companies and trade associations on how best to engage foreign trading partners, foreign governments and US government agencies.

Previously, she served as the chief agricultural negotiator in the Office of the US Trade Representative, where she led the development and execution of agricultural trade policy and negotiations for the federal government and negotiated the agricultural package of the Trans-Pacific Partnership Trade Agreement. Earlier in her career, Vetter was a deputy undersecretary at the US agriculture department, as which she worked on policy for international programs and oversaw the foreign agricultural service.

“Darci’s experience in Washington and negotiating around the world make her an incredible resource for our clients who are looking to protect their brands and grow and evolve their businesses in a complicated world. Our trust research tells us that consumers are looking for businesses to have a voice on an increasing number of issues, and she can help them do just that,” said Washington office president Lisa Ross. “Darci’s expertise will also help our clients identify new opportunities and open doors in food and agriculture in the U.S. and globally.”