GMA Hires Top Talent to Shepherd Organization into Next Chapter

The Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) has hired four senior-level personnel as part of its ongoing transformation under the new leadership of President and CEO Geoff Freeman.

• Betsy Booren will join the organization in late November as senior vice president of science and technology. She currently serves as a senior policy advisor on regulatory compliance, food safety, nutrition and related topics at Olsson Frank Weeda. Previously, she was vice president 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 in mid-November as senior vice president of member engagement. An experienced food industry strategist and association executive, he currently serves as senior vice president, industry development at the American Frozen Food Institute. Previously, Partridge held roles at Nestlé USA, The Tipton Group, the Cheese Importers Association of America and founded his own organic drinkable yogurts company, Skyland Foods.
• Katie McBreen joined as vice president of communications and research October 24. She was formerly with the National Retail Federation where she led strategic campaigns around NRF’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. Previously McBreen held roles at the U.S Chamber of Commerce, Gallatin Public Affairs and the White House.
• Katie Denis joined as senior director of industry narrative October 24. She was formerly with the U.S. Travel Association where she led “Project: Time Off,” a multi-year 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. 

“GMA’s best days are ahead. We’re bringing together a highly effective, results-driven team with proven association experience to shepherd the organization into its next chapter,” Freeman said. “This is just the beginning of a new GMA led by experienced professionals that will build a strong, contemporary advocacy organization. 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.”