Zach Helder is an agriculture policy strategist and government affairs advisor who helps organizations navigate complex policy environments, engage effectively with government stakeholders, and translate regulatory and political dynamics into clear business and organizational strategy. He brings deep experience across federal agriculture policy, trade associations, and political strategy, with a particular focus on conservation, climate policy, and agricultural economics. Zach currently serves in senior leadership roles with the Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City and Petersen & Company, where he advises clients on policy strategy, stakeholder engagement, and public affairs in the agriculture and food sectors.

Zach’s background includes senior advisory roles in the U.S. House of Representatives, where he served as Senior Agriculture Advisor, as well as leadership positions within national and regional trade associations and policy organizations. He has led communications and strategy efforts for political campaigns and advocacy organizations, giving him a practical understanding of how policy, politics, and public messaging intersect. Zach holds a Master of Public Affairs from Princeton University, with a concentration in international relations, agricultural economics, trade, and development, and brings an analytical, pragmatic approach to helping leaders anticipate policy risk, align stakeholders, and make informed strategic decisions.