Columbia Grain International promotes Kurt Haarmann to president and CEO

Columbia Grain International has promoted Kurt Haarmann to president and CEO, effective immediately, the company announced today.

Kurt HaarmannColumbia Grain InternationalHaarmann, who joined CGI in 1993, most recently served as chief commercial officer, a position he assumed on April 1, 2025. In that role, he oversaw all commodities, freight and logistics operations for the global grain trader.

"Our mission at Columbia Grain is to safely cultivate high quality ingredients from our local farmers that feed the world," Haarmann said. "It's our purpose to cultivate growth for all members of our community – from our farmers to our partners throughout our supply chain."

The University of Washington finance graduate has spent his entire career in the grain and pulse business, gaining experience in procurement, domestic and export trading, contract execution and operations management.

Despite current disruptions in agricultural markets due to geopolitical tensions in Europe, fluctuating tariffs and unfavorable weather conditions, CGI managers predict a strong year with high demand for their products in both domestic and Asian export markets.

Columbia Grain International, established in 1978, is owned by Marubeni Corporation, a major Japanese trading and investment company.