The Ohio Grocers Association (OGA) has named Joe Ewig as executive director, following the retirement of President and CEO Kristin Mullins after 36 years with the organization.
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 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.
Industry celebration
The association will mark the leadership transition May 2 during the 2026 OGA Industry Celebration.
The event will honor Mullins, who joined OGA in 1990 and had served as president and CEO since 2016, for her leadership and impact, while also recognizing the future direction of the association and 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 will succeed Saltzman, marking his second time serving in the leadership position.
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Shared vision for future
Ewig and Graff said they 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.
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 familiarity with the association – having previously led its government relations and communications efforts – positions him to step into the role with established relationships in the membership base and the state house.
“The Ohio Grocers Association has long been a cornerstone for our industry, bringing retailers and partners together in meaningful ways,” he 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.
“OGA’s strength has always been its ability to connect people and advocate effectively on behalf of the industry,” he 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.