GMA Honors NY Food Industry Advocate Michael Rosen With Excellence In Government Affairs Award

WASHINGTON, DC – The Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) awarded Michael E. Rosen, president and CEO of the Food Industry Alliance of New York State (FIA), with the association's 2014 Excellence in Government Affairs Award last night at an industry event in Rye Brook, New York.  The award is presented annually to an exceptional state association executive in recognition of their efforts to advance public policy initiatives in state and local jurisdictions on behalf of food, beverage and consumer products manufacturers and their retail trading partners.

"States and communities lead the way in the public policy debate in this country, often serving as a proving ground for policy solutions, which is why it is critically important that our industry has partners like Michael Rosen advancing responsible solutions at the state and local levels of government," said Amanda Hagan, vice president of state affairs for GMA.  "His leadership was fundamental to ensuring successful outcomes on key issues in Albany during the 2014 legislative season."

Rosen is a seasoned veteran of the food and beverage industry in New York.  He spent 27 years as FIA senior vice president and general counsel before taking the helm of the organization earlier this year.  Prior to joining FIA, Rosen worked in the New York State Senate.

"Day after day in Albany, Michael represents the grocery sector with the credibility and authority that ensures that the voice of this important industry is heard, and we are grateful for his outstanding efforts," concluded Hagan.

The GMA Excellence in Government Affairs Award was established in 1997.  Previous honorees include Linda Doherty of the New Jersey Food Council, Stan Sorkin of the Connecticut Food Association and Ronnie Volkening of the Texas Retailers Association.

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Based in Washington, D.C., the Grocery Manufacturers Association 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.

Founded in 1908, GMA is an active, vocal advocate for its member companies and a trusted source of information about the industry and the products consumers rely on and enjoy every day.  The association and its member companies are committed to meeting the needs of consumers through product innovation, responsible business practices and effective public policy solutions developed through a genuine partnership with policymakers and other stakeholders.

In keeping with its founding principles, GMA helps its members produce safe products through a strong and ongoing commitment to scientific research, testing and evaluation and to providing consumers with the products, tools and information they need to achieve a healthy diet and an active lifestyle.  The food, beverage and consumer packaged goods industry in the United States generates sales of $2.1 trillion annually, employs 14 million workers and contributes $1 trillion in added value to the economy every year. For more information visit www.gmaonline.org

Source: Grocery Manufacturers Association