The Ohio Grocers Association (OGA) has named Joe Ewig as executive director, following the retirement of President and CEO Kristin Mullins.
Ewig brings more than 13 years of government affairs and public policy experience related to the retail food and beverage industry to the role. He previously served as director of government relations and communications for OGA before becoming principal at FBT Gibbons in 2017, where he has represented the association and various private and public clients on policy and legislation across areas including education, pharmaceuticals and health care, manufacturing, retail food and beverage, and financial institutions.
Ewig also previously served as a legislative staffer in the Ohio General Assembly.
The leadership transition marks a new chapter for OGA while honoring the legacy of strong advocacy and service that has defined the association for decades.
Industry celebration
OGA will celebrate the transition at the 2026 OGA Industry Celebration on May 2.
The event will honor Mullins for her years of dedicated leadership and lasting impact on Ohio’s grocery industry, while also recognizing the future direction of the association and the opportunities ahead.
As part of the transition, Aaron Saltzman of Dave’s Markets and Lucky’s Supermarkets will conclude his tenure as chairman of the OGA Board.
Ron Graff Jr. of Columbiana Foods Inc. will return to the role of chairman, marking his second time serving in the leadership position.
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Shared vision for the future
Ewig and Graff are aligned in their vision for the future of OGA, with a continued focus on strong advocacy for Ohio’s grocery retailers and the broader industry. Together, they are committed to building on the association’s foundation by expanding opportunities for member engagement, strengthening industry relationships and enhancing OGA’s role as a leading voice in public policy.
Ewig’s deep familiarity with the association — having previously led its government relations and communications work — positions him to step into the role with established relationships across both the membership base and the Statehouse.
“The Ohio Grocers Association has long been a cornerstone for our industry, bringing retailers and partners together in meaningful ways,” Ewig said. “I’m honored to step into this role and work alongside Ron and the entire OGA board to continue that tradition while exploring new opportunities for growth and impact.”
Graff said the association’s track record of advocacy and connection will continue under the new leadership.
“OGA’s strength has always been its ability to connect people and advocate effectively on behalf of the industry,” Graff said. “I’m excited to return as chairman and partner with Joe and the OGA team to ensure we continue delivering value to our members and advancing the grocery community across Ohio.”
About the association
The Ohio Grocers Association (OGA) is the leading advocate for the state’s grocery industry, representing retailers, wholesalers and industry partners. OGA works to promote a strong, competitive grocery marketplace through advocacy, education and networking opportunities.