National Confectioners Association (NCA) President and CEO John Downs has announced a series of senior leadership promotions across the organization.
Brian McKeon has been promoted to EVP of public policy and regulatory affairs, and Christopher Gindlesperger has been named EVP of public affairs and communications. Both will take on an expanded role in advancing NCA’s thought leadership agenda related to policy and strategic communications.
Additional promotions include Steve McCroddan to EVP, chief financial officer and chief administrative officer; Sarah Atkinson to chief of staff and SVP of industry engagement; Susan Whiteside to SVP of marketing and communications; and Jennifer Gardner to VP of state government affairs.
“These promotions reflect the strength of NCA’s leadership team and our continued focus on delivering results for a dynamic and growing industry,” Downs said. “With deep expertise across policy, government affairs, communications, marketing and organizational leadership, Brian, Christopher, Steve, Sarah, Susan and Jennifer have each played a critical role in shaping the modern NCA, and their collaborative leadership will continue to strengthen our advocacy, elevate our voice, and position NCA for the future.”
McKeon has led NCA’s public policy efforts for five years, overseeing federal, state and regulatory advocacy on behalf of the confectionery industry. In his new role, he will expand his portfolio to include oversight of NCA’s scientific and regulatory affairs function while continuing to advance the association’s policy leadership in a complex legislative and regulatory environment.
Gindlesperger has spent 11 years leading the association’s public affairs and communications strategy. He worked with member companies and brands to enhance the industry’s reputation and elevate awareness of NCA’s policy priorities through strategic communications, media engagement, consumer education and award-winning campaigns. Under his leadership, NCA has worked to differentiate chocolate and candy from other foods through the Always A Treat initiative. As EVP, Gindlesperger will further integrate strategic communications with policy and member company engagement.
NCA member companies drive $55 billion in retail sales.
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