IDFA Adds Manager of Trade and Economic Policy

The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) has appointed Elena Clark as its new manager for trade and economic policy. In this role, Clark will be responsible for informing, overseeing, and implementing trade policies and economic strategies that align with the growth objectives and priorities of U.S. dairy and its member companies. She will report directly to Becky Rasdall Vargas, senior vice president for trade and workforce policy.

Elena Clark transitions to IDFA fr om her previous position at the U.N. Food & Agriculture Organization (FAO), wh ere she excelled as the legislative affairs and economics specialist for North America. Her responsibilities at FAO included guiding the legislative strategy for the U.S. Congress and Canadian Parliament, while also delivering synthesized market and trade data alongside Codex standards.

With a rich background, Clark has also pursued her master’s in international economic policy focusing on agricultural trade at George Washington University, during which she completed an internship with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service in Tokyo, Japan. She has legislative experience from her time on Capitol Hill, working with Reps. Greg Steube and Lou Barletta, managing issues across agriculture, trade, the environment, and energy sectors.

“Trade and economic policy remain pivotal for the sustained success of the U.S. dairy industry and are fundamental priorities for IDFA,” stated Becky Rasdall Vargas. “We are thrilled to welcome Elena to our team in Washington, D.C. Her expertise and commitment are set to bolster our initiatives and enhance value for our members.”

Elena Clark is slated to commence her new role on May 12, 2025.