FRESNO, CA - The California Fresh Fruit Association (CFFA) is pleased to announce the hiring of Clayton Smith as its new Director of Government Relations. He comes to the Association after serving as a Legislative Assistant in the United States House of Representatives.

CFFA Board Chairwoman Melissa Frank of the Wonderful Company stated in the press release, “On behalf of CFFA’s leadership, we are thrilled to welcome Clayton to the Association. His experience working in Washington, DC, along with his background and education, will be of great value to our membership.”

Association President Daniel Hartwig added, “I am delighted to welcome Clayton to the CFFA team. He brings extensive professional experience working on issues such as water, labor, and trade, and I am confident he will be a strong voice for our membership in Sacramento and Washington, DC. I am confident that Clayton will work collaboratively in conjunction with our current staff to continue to serve the needs of the California fresh fruit industry.“

Clayton is a graduate of Oklahoma State University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Business. He served as an intern for CFFA the summer following his college graduation. Clayton’s first day at the Association was Monday, July 7.