USRPA Names Iris Figueroa President And Chief Executive Officer

US RICE PRODUCERS

KATY, TEXAS

 The Board of Directors of the US Rice Producers Association (USRPA) has appointed Iris Figueroa as its new President and Chief Executive Officer.

Figueroa joined USRPA in 2022 and quickly embraced the association’s core mission of being a producer-led, producer-focused organization. Most recently serving as Chief Operating Officer, she played a leading role in managing the association’s international programs, particularly throughout the Western Hemisphere. In that role, she strengthened long-standing relationships with international buyers and industry partners while ensuring that the interests of U.S. rice producers remained the association’s highest priority.

“As President of the Texas Rice Council and a member of the US Rice Producers Association (USRPA) Board of Directors, I am pleased to announce the appointment of Iris as President and CEO of USRPA. We are confident that her leadership, industry expertise, and extensive experience in both domestic and international markets will help guide U.S. rice producers through this important period of transition and opportunity. I have personally witnessed Iris excel in meetings with some of our largest buyers around the world, consistently demonstrating professionalism, strategic insight, and a deep commitment to the interests of U.S. rice producers. She has earned the respect of stakeholders throughout the industry, and her producer-focused approach makes her exceptionally well-suited to lead our organization into the future. We are in very capable hands moving forward, and I look forward to working alongside Iris as we continue advancing the interests of U.S. rice producers at home and abroad.”

Originally from Puerto Rico, Figueroa brings a unique perspective and strong cultural understanding to USRPA’s international efforts. Her ability to connect with customers and stakeholders across the Americas has helped foster stronger relationships and expand opportunities for U.S. rice producers around the world. Her commitment to serving rice producers and advocating for the U.S. rice industry has earned the respect of both domestic and international partners.

Figueroa holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the Inter American University of Puerto Rico and a Master of Business Administration (MBA). During her time with USRPA, she has demonstrated a passion for building partnerships, expanding market opportunities, and promoting the success of U.S. agriculture.

“I am deeply honored and humbled by the confidence that the Board of Directors has placed in me,” said Figueroa. “Serving as President and CEO of US Rice Producers Association is both a tremendous privilege and a profound responsibility, one that I take very seriously. I am grateful for the trust that has been placed in me, and I remain committed to working every day on behalf of U.S. rice producers, strengthening our industry, and advancing opportunities for our producers both at home and around the world.”

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Figueroa is the proud wife and mother of teenage twins and understands the importance of dedication, perseverance, and balancing leadership with family values.   ∆

US RICE PRODUCERS