GMA Hires 4 Execs
The Grocery Manufacturers Association has brought on board four senior-level executives as part of the Arlington, Va.-based trade organization’s continuing evolution under the leadership of recently named President and CEO Geoff Freeman.
“GMA’s best days are ahead,” noted Freeman. “We’re bringing together a highly effective, results-driven team with proven association experience to shepherd the organization into its next chapter.”
The new appointments are as follows:
Betsy Booren, PhD., will join the organization in late November as SVP of science and technology. Booren is currently a senior policy advisor on regulatory compliance, food safety, nutrition and related topics at Olsson Frank Weeda. Previously, she was VP of scientific affairs at the North American Meat Institute and president of the Foundation of Meat and Poultry Research and Education.
Brandon Partridge will join GMA in mid-November as SVP of member engagement. A seasoned food industry strategist and association executive, Partridge is currently SVP, industry development at the American Frozen Food Institute. Before that, he held roles at Nestlé USA, The Tipton Group and the Cheese Importers Association of America, and founded his own organic drinkable yogurt company, Skyland Foods.
Katie McBreen started on Oct. 24 as VP of communications and research. McBreen joined GMA from the National Retail Federation, where she led strategic campaigns in support of the federation’s industry and advocacy priorities, including the defeat of the border adjustment tax. She also managed the organization’s strategic and executive positioning, crisis communications, advertising and media relations efforts. Earlier, McBreen held roles at the U.S Chamber of Commerce, Gallatin Public Affairs and the White House.
Katie Denis also began her new job as senior director of industry narrative on Oct. 24. Denis joined GMA from the U.S. Travel Association, where she headed Project: Time Off, a multiyear initiative to promote the value of travel and drive increased vacation usage. She previously held roles at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Vehr Communications, and in the U.S. House and Senate.
“This is just the beginning of a new GMA led by experienced professionals that will build a strong, contemporary advocacy organization,” said Freeman. “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.”
