The Canadian International Grains Institute (Cigi) has a new interim CEO.

Dean Dias will take over from JoAnne Buth who is retiring on May 24, 2019.

Dias holds a Diploma in Software Engineering from Cambrian College in Sudbury, Ontario and a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of Winnipeg. Dias moved to Canada in 2006 from Mumbai, India to pursue further education. Since 2009, he has held multiple positions at Cigi, which include IT specialist, Manager of Programs and Director of Value Chain Relations. In his current role Dias liaises with the Canadian value chain and international customers contributing to the overall strategy, execution and successful delivery of training and market development programs which promote and differentiate the Canadian brand around the world.

“I am very proud to have this opportunity to lead Cigi and work with the dedicated team of world-class highly qualified professionals to support the needs of our members and the overall success of the industry," said Dias. "In this role I look forward to working with the Board of Directors and with the Canadian grain value chain, from farmers to end-use customers to increase the value of Canadian grain crops."

“Cigi now and into the future, is a critical part of the Canadian high-quality grain brand, where vision, technical market support and collaboration will be paramount to the whole industry’s success.”

Cigi is an independent market development institute created in 1972. More than 43,000 people representing grain, oilseed, pulse and special crops industries from 115 countries have participated in Cigi programs and seminars. Cigi’s mission is to be the trusted independent source for milling, quality and end-use functionality expertise for millers and end users of Canadian grain to increase market opportunities and end-user success.

Cigi is funded by farmers, grain handlers and exporters with support from the Government of Canada (AAFC) and industry partners.