Benjamin Dessart is a seasoned corporate affairs officer with deep experience in strategic public policy, government relations, and stakeholder engagement. He currently serves as Vice President of External Affairs at Universal Corporation, a global agriproducts company and the world’s leading leaf tobacco supplier. In his role, Ben leads engagement on public policy, sustainability, and stakeholder relations across key global markets, working closely with governments, customers, growers, and industry partners.
Before joining Universal, Ben held roles in the U.S. House of Representatives, including time as political director for the House Majority Leader. He also served as a legislative assistant in the Virginia House of Delegates and contributed to the government affairs team at Altria before transitioning to corporate affairs leadership within Universal Leaf Tobacco Company.
Mr. Dessart holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Virginia, a Juris Doctor from the University of Richmond School of Law, and recently received his Master of Business Administration from the Darden School of Business.
From his experience serving as Vice-President and Treasurer of the Eliminating Child Labour in Tobacco Foundation, a senior member of the Farm Labor Practices Group, and a Board member of the Nicotine Resource Consortium, Ben offers a practical, supply-chain focused perspective on regulatory trends, sustainability, and the future of the tobacco and nicotine industry.
