Washington, D.C. — The National Confectioners Association announced today three new additions to the organization’s executive team. Elise Fennig was named to the newly created position of chief of staff, Karen Horan was promoted to vice president of global business development and Laura Shumow was promoted to vice president of scientific and regulatory affairs.
“Elise, Karen and Laura are welcome additions to the NCA executive team,” John Downs, NCA president and CEO, commented. “With their expertise and backgrounds, I’m confident all three will help the association on its path to fulfilling the confectionery industry’s vision: that the public understands and appreciates candy’s unique role in a happy, balanced lifestyle.”
As chief of staff for NCA, Fennig will work closely with Downs on priority special projects related to the annual business plan and strategic plan as well as provide oversight for the Association’s industry affairs, membership, global business development and HR functions to ensure the successful implementation of the organization’s strategic plan. Fennig was most recently with The Kraft Heinz Company, acting as a primary liaison between Kraft Heinz and the company’s retail customers and trade association partners. She also held a leadership position at the Grocery Manufacturers Association, serving as vice president of industry affairs where she directed and managed industry initiatives and projects in the areas of supply chain management, technology, sales and industry performance.
In her new role as vice president of global business development, Horan will continue to foster international presence for American candy brands and build upon the association’s successful participation in USDA’s Market Access Program. She has been with NCA for 15 years, having grown the MAP program to record high levels, using the funding for important NCA initiatives including, most recently, a comprehensive review of the global legislative and regulatory environment. Her work in strengthening the global presence of customers at the Sweets & Snacks Expo has translated into increased revenue for the show’s exhibitors.
Laura Shumow, who has served NCA for seven years, will oversee the association’s scientific and regulatory agendas. She has created a scientific knowledge-base for the confectionery industry that is the foundation of its moderation and responsibility messaging. Because of her efforts, confectionery became one of the first
industries to have a definition of moderation accepted into a peer-reviewed journal. In addition to being highly regarded by her peers at USDA and FDA, countless numbers of NCA members rely on her efficient, reliable counsel when it comes to fundamental questions regarding food safety and labeling.
“NCA has made tremendous strides towards achieving its new strategic plan over the past 18 months,” Downs said. “Elise, Karen and Laura each bring a unique skillset that will further execute our plan and ensure the association stays true to its mission of advancing, protecting and promoting the confectionery industry.”
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The National Confectioners Association is the trade organization representing the $35 billion U.S. confections industry. NCA and its members value the fun and enjoyment of chocolate, candy, gum and mints, serving as a transparent and trustworthy source while building and promoting a responsible industry. As the leading trade association for the industry, NCA is proud of the role it plays in the public’s understanding and appreciation of candy’s unique role in a happy, balanced lifestyle. For more information, visit www.CandyUSA.com.
Source: The National Confectioners Association