Peter M. Perez
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Manufacturing
U.S. Department of Commerce
International Trade Administration
Mr. Perez directs the Department of Commerce’s efforts to enhance the export competitiveness of U.S. manufacturing and promote job growth in the U.S manufacturing sector. The United States is the world’s largest manufacturing economy producing more than 18 percent of the world’s manufactured products. He leads his division’s efforts in developing trade policies, initiatives and programs to enhance U.S. exports. His industry analysts leverage their in-depth sector and analytical expertise in the development and execution of trade policy and promotional strategies designed to expand U.S. exports. The International Trade Administration’s Manufacturing division covers U.S. manufacturing, including the energy, environment, materials, aerospace, automotives, materials, health, consumer goods, and information and communications industries.
In previous positions, Mr. Perez worked for more than 40 years in the manufacturing sector. Most recently he was president of Carter Products Company, a family-owned business, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. During this time, he served as President of the Wood Machinery Manufacturers of America (WMMA) and on the board of the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM). He also served on the Board and Executive Committee as Vice Chairman of the Grand Rapids Symphony, on the Board and Executive committee of West Michigan’s regional economic development agency, The Right Place, Inc., as a trustee of the Michigan Colleges Foundation, and was active in a number of West Michigan civic organizations. Prior to Carter Products, he was president of the world famous piano manufacturer, Steinway & Sons and previous to that, president of C.G. Conn, also manufacturers of brass, woodwind, and other musical instruments.
Mr. Perez received his B.A. in English Literature from Yale University and his M.B.A. with honors from Indiana University. He also served as an officer in the U.S. Navy.
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