Ryan Pennington is Senior Director of Communications and Corporate Affairs for Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, where he oversees the company’s corporate communications, government affairs, community relations, and charitable contributions functions. Prior to joining Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, Ryan was Communications Director for the Washington Wine Commission, which represents all growers and wineries in the state. Prior to joining the Washington Wine Commission, Ryan was Director of Public Affairs in the Seattle office of MWW Group, one of the ten largest independent public relations firms in the U.S. Ryan began his career in the public sector, serving as Legislative Aide and Campaign Director for Congressman Rick Larsen (D-WA), as Washington State Director for the Democratic National Committee, and as External Affairs Director for Governor-Elect Christine Gregoire (D-WA). Ryan holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Western Washington University and has achieved the Level 3 Advanced Award in Wines and Spirits from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust.