Coffee Quality Institute (CQI) is thrilled to announce the appointment of T.J. Ryan as Director of Mission Engagement. Ryan, a seasoned professional in the coffee industry, brings decades of expertise in building partnerships and facilitating on-ground initiatives aimed at improving coffee quality and fostering sustainability.

“This is a new role at CQI, and I can’t think of anyone better to fill it,” said Michael Sheridan, CEO of CQI. “T.J. is a proven leader with decades of experience in coffee communities around the world. He knows the difference that quality can make in the lives of the people who produce coffee because he has seen it first-hand, working in the field with CQI to help connect quality-focused coffee producers to markets in ways that have lasting impact.”

Ryan’s extensive background includes his tenure at ACDI/VOCA, where he served as Chief of Party for the PhilCAFE project in the Philippines. The initiative successfully enhanced coffee quality and boosted competitiveness in the region. Additionally, Ryan held the role of Managing Director of Specialty Crops, overseeing the development and implementation of agribusiness strategies across Latin America, Africa, and Asia. He also holds an MBA from the Carey Business School at Johns Hopkins University.

Expressing his enthusiasm, Ryan shared, “Working with Coffee Quality Institute at this time is really exciting. I’m looking forward to using my experience in new ways and to utilize this global platform to serve coffee communities with greater impact.”

As Director of Mission Engagement, Ryan will spearhead CQI’s efforts in cross-sector collaboration, resource mobilization, and impact assessment. His responsibilities include cultivating relationships with diverse stakeholders such as private-sector investors, public-sector leaders, academic institutions, and allied organizations.

With Ryan at the helm of this pivotal new role, CQI is poised to expand its reach and deepen its impact, continuing its mission to advance coffee quality and support coffee-producing communities worldwide.