Thorn Run Partners is launching a new business unit focused on growing economic opportunities in the Western Hemisphere, according to a FreightWaves report. The Washington lobbyist's Latin America Business Opportunities Practice will be led by partner and former Federal Maritime Commission Chairman Louis Sola, along with a seven-person team of trade and policy experts.
Practice Launch and Rationale
The launch comes at a time of growing economic integration across the Western Hemisphere, "creating new opportunities for organizations seeking to establish or grow their presence in key regional markets," Thorn Run said in a release, as reported by FreightWaves. The practice will identify growth and investment opportunities across Latin America, connecting clients with stakeholders and decision-makers across supply chains, logistics, energy, and critical industries.
Team Composition
The multidisciplinary team is headed by Louis Sola, partner and former Federal Maritime Commission chairman; Mary Thien Hoang, longtime FMC Chief of Staff; and Hayden Jewett, a government affairs specialist with experience in both the public and private sectors. Their expertise spans government relations, international trade, maritime policy, logistics, economic development, and public-private engagement, according to Thorn Run.
| Name | Role | Background |
|---|---|---|
| Louis Sola | Partner & Practice Leader | Former FMC Chairman |
| Mary Thien Hoang | Team Member | Former FMC Chief of Staff |
| Hayden Jewett | Team Member | Government Affairs Specialist |
Market Context
Thorn Run stated that as "industry increasingly looks to diversify supply chains, expand into new markets, and strengthen regional partnerships, TRP will provide strategic guidance to help clients understand the evolving policy and business landscape shaping the Americas." The Western Hemisphere is undergoing "a profound economic realignment," with supply chain diversification and nearshoring "rewriting the rules of regional trade," according to the firm.
"Navigating this new reality requires more than just market entry strategies; it demands a sophisticated understanding of localized regulatory environments, maritime infrastructure, and geopolitical nuances," said Louis Sola in the announcement. "Formalizing this practice allows us to deploy our team's deep, on-the-ground relationships and policy expertise to give clients a decisive edge across Latin American markets."
Strategic Implications
For C-suite executives and investors, the practice signals growing demand for specialized advisory services that bridge U.S. policy dynamics with Latin American market realities. By combining regulatory insight with local stakeholder access, Thorn Run aims to help clients capitalize on nearshoring trends and infrastructure development. The firm's focus on maritime and logistics policy is particularly relevant as supply chain resilience becomes a boardroom priority.
Sources:
