Washington, D.C.-based National Grocers Association, which represents independent community supermarkets, promoted several staff members and updated job titles.
“The most important part of any organization is its people, and NGA is fortunate to have a best-in-class team that comes to work every day focused on supporting our members,” NGA President and CEO Greg Ferrara said in a news release.
The trade organization is kicking off its 40th anniversary in 2022 by renewing its commitment to help communities nationwide benefit from local, community-focused businesses, he said.
Staff updates include:
- Maggie White is now the senior director of the NGA Foundation. In the last two years as director, White helped rejuvenate and grow the foundation’s programs and services, while increasing the awareness of the organization, especially during the pandemic. In this new role, White will lead efforts to expand the foundation’s supporter base and identify new opportunities to enhance its programs and offerings;
- Robert Yeakel has been promoted to senior director of government relations; he will oversee day-to-day management of the department, as well as help develop and execute a successful strategy to achieve NGA’s legislative and regulatory goals;
- Mary Whitehead is now senior manager of marketing; she will take on an expanded role in the creation and execution of integrated marketing campaigns to drive growth across NGA’s programs and initiatives. Whitehead also will be responsible for managing the production of NGA’s marketing assets and tools that elevate a cohesive brand awareness for the association;
- LaKesha Gathers-Flowers will now serve as senior manager of the executive office, as well as board liaison. She will continue to manage the executive office and take a greater role in supporting NGA Board of Directors operations;
- Marvelle Wright, previously specialist in accounts receivable and payable, will now have the new role of manager of accounting transactions and member support. In her new capacity, Wright will take on a greater role in members support for the organization; and
- With an updated title of senior vice president of membership and industry relations, Jonathan Downey will now oversee the membership department with a focus on growing membership across all three of NGA’s membership categories (retailer, wholesaler and associate).