Katherine DiMatteo, who was executive director of the Organic Trade Association from 1990 to 2006, was yesterday named president of the World Board of the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM), the worldwide umbrella organization for the organic movement.

During her 16 years at OTA, DiMatteo was the principal spokeswoman for the U.S. organic business community, as well as a global leader in helping to build consensus on organic standards and practices.

"I believe her leadership as resident of IFOAM's World Board will be a great boon for organic agriculture around the world," said current OTA executive director Caren Wilcox.

IFOAM brings together over 750 member organizations, including OTA, from 108 countries. Through its General Assembly, IFOAM helps guard organic credibility and integrity globally.

Greenfield, Mass.-based OTA is the membership-based business association for organic agriculture and products in North America. Its over 1,700 members include growers, shippers, processors, certifiers, farmers' associations, distributors, importers, exporters, consultants, and retailers.