Fair Trade USA’s New Head of Coffee To Focus on Growth

OAKLAND, CA. – (October 8, 2024) – Fair Trade USA™ announced today it has hired Clay Dockery as Head of Coffee to expand its program and support global producers.

“Clay’s extensive experience in Fair Trade’s important coffee sector enhances our ability to achieve sustainable growth and expansion,” said Felipe Arango, interim CEO of Fair Trade USA. “His extensive experience within the coffee sector makes for a strong fit to fulfill Fair Trade’s long-term mission.”

Clay brings to Fair Trade a deep background in private label with unique insights into the coffee industry. He was recently inducted into the Private Label Hall of Fame, recognized for his impactful contributions and expertise within the field. His passion for Fair Trade began when he attended a Fair Trade trip to Peru as a roaster with Massimo Zanetti Beverage USA. There, he saw firsthand how Fair Trade impacts producers.

“I was fortunate to see the community reinvestment happen in real time, and deeply understand the need for Fair Trade USA’s standards,” said Clay. “I look forward to sharing the importance of the mission and working to improve lives in farming communities.”

Clay was Vice President of Corporate Brands at Massimo Zanetti Beverage USA for 14 years, where he built his expertise in coffee and gained critical understanding of the coffee supply chain and how to best support farmers and producers in implementing fair standards. He has held leadership roles at PLMA, Kerry Ingredients and Flavours, and American Italian Pasta company. He is an expertise in consumer behavior and understanding of how to scale businesses with a responsible supply chain in mind.

As Head of Coffee, Clay will ensure that Fair Trade Certified™ standards are visible and drive results within the sector. He will focus on industry and producer buy-in and work to advance and innovate the organization’s coffee program. He will activate Fair Trade USA’s global growth goals while identifying opportunities for expansion and evolution. Though the role is focused on the coffee sector, Clay aims to have a robust and lasting impact on the entire organization, advancing Fair Trade USA’s global mission.

Clay is an avid jogger and adventurer in Ocean Springs, Miss. He is president of the Towns Around Biloxi Parrot Head Club and a member of the Ocean Springs Carnival Association, both of which support the Special Forces Charitable Trust and The Make-A-Wish Foundation.

About Fair Trade USA

Fair Trade USA, a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is the leading certifier of Fair Trade products in North America. Its award-winning, rigorous, and globally recognized sustainable sourcing certification programs improve livelihoods, protect the environment, and build resilient, transparent supply chains. The trusted Fair Trade Certified™ label on a product signifies that it was made according to stringent Fair Trade standards. Fair Trade USA is building an innovative model of responsible business, conscious consumerism, and shared value to eliminate poverty and enable sustainable development for farmers, workers, their families, and communities around the world.

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