FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Dave Heylen, V.P. Communications California Grocers Association
Tel: 916.448.3545
Fax: 916.448.2793
E-mail: [email protected]
California Grocers Association
1415 L Street, Suite 450
Sacramento, CA 95814
SACRAMENTO, CA – (January 16, 2009) – The California Grocers Association (CGA) has hired Keri Bailey as Vice President, Government Relations, effective Jan. 16, 2009.
She will be responsible for managing CGA’s government relations program at both the state and local level, including CGA’s two local government representatives and Sacramento staff. She will be the Association’s chief lobbyist and direct CGA’s contract lobbyists.
Bailey comes to CGA with more than 15 years experience in the California Legislature. Most recently, she was Director of State Government Affairs for the California and Nevada Credit Union Leagues. Prior to that, she served as Chief of Staff for Assemblymember Ed Chavez; Senior Consultant/Legislative Director for Assemblymember Ellen Corbett; Senior Consultant for Assemblymember Martin Gallegos and Field Representative/Legislative Aide for Assemblymember Mike Machado.
After an extensive search which featured many qualified candidates, CGA President/CEO Ronald Fong and members of the CGA Government Relations Committee decided on Bailey. “Keri is the perfect fit for the Association,” said Fong. “Her outstanding reputation and extensive experience at the state Capitol coupled with her association experience at the CA Credit Union League will allow CGA to continue expanding its government relations program.”
Fong said CGA plans to expand its sphere of influence both at the state and local levels and believes Bailey’s legislative experience and knowledge will play a pivotal role in reaching that goal. CGA also plans to make significant progress on its grassroots programming and political action committee with Bailey helping to lead the charge. “The interview committee was impressed with Keri’s overall knowledge of political and grassroots programs. We look forward to drawing on her experience to expand our own efforts” said Fong.
The California Grocers Association is a non-profit, statewide trade association representing the food industry since 1898. CGA represents approximately 500 retail members operating over 6,000 food stores in California and Nevada, and approximately 200 grocery supplier companies. Retail membership includes chain and independent supermarkets, convenience stores and mass merchandisers.