Prior to joining the Connector team in November of 2023, Ryan M. Parada served as the Senior Manager of Government Affairs and International Policy at the Premium Cigar Association (PCA). His international prowess was evident in directing PCA’s global affairs, lobbying governments worldwide on premium tobacco issues, and establishing the Diplomatic Cigar Corps. Ryan earned his master’s degree in government from Johns Hopkins University, with his thesis earning an honors distinction. Ryan holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Rutgers University, accompanied by a Certificate of National Security.