Dana Johnson Downing

About Dana Johnson Downing

Specializing in Strategic Thought Leadership, Partnership Development, & Stakeholder Relations With more than 20 years in communications, business development, and external relations, I’ve built a reputation as compelling storyteller with the ability to communicate complex technology and regulatory matters in a crisp and simple way that resonates with diverse audiences. My diverse background includes serving as a top advisor to CEOs, ambassadors, foreign diplomats, senators/congressmen, trade association executives, farmers/ranchers, church leaders, students, and peers. I have influenced international negotiations, policy-making, product development, corporate branding, strategic alliances, and funding decisions using keen instincts and market intelligence. My success is due to my ability to generate ideas, design projects, cast vision, build consensus with diverse groups, and implement plans with passion. Key accomplishments and skills include: Spearheading partnerships & alliances to drive business growth New product (SaaS) and partner integration launches More than doubled participation in webinars and industry outreach events Led an internal branding campaign and employee satisfaction study Led coalitions and secured funding for programs such as: multi-stakeholder sustainability assurance campaign; West African poultry & feed industry development study; trade association re-branding and reputation management campaign Led USDA’s legislative campaigns to secure Congressional passage of trade agreements Extensive business travel to 43 countries Strategic Partnerships, Public Relations, Stakeholder Engagement, Product Marketing, Branding, Business Development. Proposal Writing, Communications, Strategic Planning, Fundraising, Change Management, Project Management, Sustainability, International Business, Trade: Import / Export, Policy Development, Marketing Strategy, Government Relations, Advocacy, Spokesperson, Coalition Building

Experience

1. SVP, International Programs

   North American Renderers Association

   Jan 2022 — Present

Education

• Preventive Controls for Human Food

  Certificate

  2016 — 2016

• Foreign Service Institute

  Certificate

• Diplomatic Language School

  Certificate

  2007 — 2008

• Iowa State University

  BA