GMA beefs up government affairs staff

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Pamela G. Bailey, president and CEO of the Grocery Manufacturers Association, has announced the addition of two new directors to the association’s federal affairs staff, Nancy Kohler and David Prestwood.

“I am pleased to welcome Nancy Kohler and David Prestwood to GMA. They will be invaluable additions to our federal affairs team as we pursue our member-driven federal policy agenda here in Washington,” said Bailey. “Both of these individuals possess the ability to develop and execute winning legislative strategies while building collaborative relationships in the corridors of Congress, the regulatory agencies and the executive branch.”

Nancy Kohler joins GMA from the Corn Refiners Association where she was assistant director for policy and operations for six years. Among her responsibilities at CRA were coordinating federal government relations activities, including managing CRA’s government relations committee, and overseeing several safety and technical programs for member companies. Kohler was an associate with Collins and Company, a government relations firm specializing in appropriations work, before moving to CRA. She began her career in Washington in the office of Congressman Dave Hobson (OH-7). At GMA, she will focus primarily on agriculture policy.

“As a veteran of the food industry, I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to continue working on the issues that are central to safe, efficient and effective value chain operations,” said Kohler. “I look forward to advocating for responsible policy solutions that support the production of safe, nutritious and affordable food for consumers all over the world.”

David Prestwood most recently served as senior policy advisor to Senator Patty Murray (WA). In this role, Prestwood managed a portfolio of issues related to commerce, financial services and technology, among others. He also represented Senator Murray in her role as a member of the senate leadership and led communications initiatives in support of her policy priorities. Before his time in the senate, Prestwood worked for Congressman Brad Sherman (CA-27) as legislative assistant and counsel. He worked on health care, homeland security, technology and Judiciary committee issues. Prestwood will oversee GMA’s work on energy policy and chemicals management.

“GMA member companies are known as some of the most innovative companies in the world,” noted Prestwood. “I look forward to working with them, along with GMA staff and policymakers, to advance policies that promote innovation and growth while also assuring the safety, integrity and affordability of products for consumers.”

Both Kohler and Prestwood will report to Mike Gruber, VP for federal affairs.

Founded in 1908, GMA is an active, vocal advocate for its member companies. It is the voice of more than 300 leading food, beverage and consumer product companies that sustain and enhance the quality of life for hundreds of millions of people in the United States and around the globe.