WASHINGTON — The Grocery Manufacturers Association has unveiled four senior-level hires as part of the organization’s ongoing transformation under the new leadership of Geoff Freeman, president and chief executive officer.
Betsy Booren, Ph.D., is set to join the G.M.A. in late November as senior vice-president of science and technology. Dr. Booren is senior policy adviser on regulatory compliance, food safety, nutrition and related topics at Olsson Frank Weeda. Earlier, she was vice-president of scientific affairs at the North American Meat Institute and president of the Foundation of Meat and Poultry Research and Education.
Brandon Partridge has been named senior vice-president of member engagement. Mr. Partridge is scheduled to join the association in mid-November. He currently is senior vice-president of industry development at the American Frozen Food Institute and earlier held roles at Nestle USA, The Tipton Group and the Cheese Importers Association of America. He also founded his own organic drinkable yogurts company, Skyland Foods.
Katie McBreen and Katie Denis joined the G.M.A. on Oct. 24 as vice-president of communications and research and senior director of industry narrative, respectively.
Before joining the G.M.A. Ms. McBreen led strategic campaigns around the National Retail Federation’s industry and advocacy priorities. Earlier, she managed the organization’s strategic and executive positioning, crisis communications, advertising and media relations efforts. She also has held roles at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Gallatin Public Affairs and the White House.
Ms. Denis most recently was with the U.S. Travel Association, where she led “Project: Time Off,” a multi-year initiative to promote the value of travel and drive increased vacation usage. She earlier held roles at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Vehr Communications and in the U.S. House and Senate.
“G.M.A.’s best days are ahead,” Mr. Freeman said. “We’re bringing together a highly effective, results-driven team with proven association experience to shepherd the organization into its next chapter.
“This is just the beginning of a new G.M.A. led by experienced professionals that will build a strong, contemporary advocacy organization. The new GMA will communicate the industry’s remarkable story, nimbly adapt to changes in the marketplace and concentrate its advocacy on reducing frictions for consumers and industry alike.”