The Washington, D.C.-based U.S. Grains Council will be headed by Thomas C. Dorr starting mid-November.

Dorr prepared to be president and CEO of the country’s largest export market development organization by serving as USDA Undersecretary for Rural Development and also president of a family farm and agribusiness company for 30 years.

Dorr intends to use his new position to clearly define the challenges and opportunities for international grain trade.

Outgoing from the position is Ken Hobbie. Hobbie held the position for the past 18 years and has been with the council for 33 years.