#United States #Portland #CGI #Columbia Grain #Kurt Haarmann

Columbia Grain International Elevates Kurt Haarmann to President and CEO

On September 2, 2025, Columbia Grain International™ (CGI) announced that Kurt Haarmann has been promoted to President and CEO, effective immediately. The promotion comes as part of the company's ambitious plan to enhance its market position amid ongoing challenges in the global grain sector. Since its inception in 1978, CGI has established itself as a leader in the origination, processing, logistics, and distribution of high-quality bulk grains, pulses, edible beans, oilseeds, and organics.

CGI's parent company, Marubeni Corporation, a prominent Japanese trading company, made the announcement, emphasizing the significance of Kurt's leadership in expanding CGI's operations. With a Bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Washington, Haarmann has over three decades of experience in the grain industry, having joined CGI in 1993.

Prior to his promotion, Kurt served as the Chief Commercial Officer, where he was responsible for overseeing all commodities, freight, and logistics operations. His extensive background in procurement, domestic and export trading, and contract execution makes him well-suited for his new role. “Our mission at Columbia Grain is to safely cultivate high-quality ingredients from our local farmers that feed the world,” Haarmann stated in response to his appointment.

Given the current geopolitical tensions affecting agricultural markets, as well as fluctuating tariffs and adverse weather conditions, CGI is preparing to meet an expected rise in demand for grains, corn, soybeans, and pulses. The company has forecasted a promising year ahead, particularly with growing interest in U.S. grains from markets in Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan.

CGI, headquartered in Portland, Oregon, operates an extensive and reliable supply chain that stretches across the western United States, thanks to its strong relationships with farmers in fertile regions such as Washington, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, and North Dakota. These areas are celebrated for producing high-quality wheat, feed grains, canola, and pulses.

In addition to grain trading, CGI is also the owner of Montana Specialty Mills, which operates an organic and non-GMO oilseed crushing facility. The company has also expanded its operations to include a mustard seed facility and Montana Craft Malt, a provider of specialty malt barley to the craft brewing industry. This vertically integrated approach further solidifies CGI's presence in the agricultural sector, enabling them to support their farmers continuously.

As Haarmann steps into this leadership role, he is committed to fostering growth not just for CGI, but for everyone within its expansive supply chain from local farmers to international partners.

The changes under his stewardship are expected to position CGI favorably in a competitive market, ensuring that the company's values remain aligned with its operational strategy, thereby sustaining its legacy as a pivotal player in the global grain industry.