Blake Ramsey has been named assistant commissioner for business development at the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, the department announced Sept. 10.
Ramsey previously served as director of business development for the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development. Before entering state government, he held international-trade and trade-show positions with the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture.
Agriculture Commissioner Andy Holt said Ramsey’s experience connecting businesses with markets would support the state’s agricultural economy and rural communities. Ramsey identified farming, forestry, food and beverage manufacturing, and other value-added industries as areas he looks forward to working with.
His background includes a 2024 staff award from the national association and an appointment to the Agricultural Technical Advisory Committee for Trade in Processed Foods.
Ramsey holds an MBA from the University of Georgia and degrees in agribusiness and agricultural economics from Texas A&M University, according to the department.
Sources: Tennessee Department of Agriculture, Sept. 10 release.