The National Grocers Association (NGA) says that Matthew R. Ott has been named VP of operations and that Greg Ferrara, VP of public affairs, has been appointed as head of government relations.
Ott previously was NGA’s VP of membership and information technology. Since January 2011, he has been responsible for membership service offerings, including the development and improvement of organizational technology, such as the online member portal and the NGA Online Training and Education Center (grocerytraining.org). In addition to his current responsibilities for membership, technology and partnerships, Ott assumes responsibility for expo management and all advertising sales.
Ferrara, VP of public affairs since 2012, has been appointed as NGA’s head of government relations and communications and NGA’s chief lobbyist. He assumed these new responsibilities in January upon the retirement of Tom Wenning. His responsibilities include representing NGA and its members before Congress and the Administration as well as overseeing the NGA Grocers PAC and the NGA Campaign. He also oversees NGA’s communications department. Ferrara joined NGA in 2005 as director of government relations and has served in various leadership roles since.
“Throughout their time working for NGA, both Matt and Greg have steadily increased their responsibilities and have an impressive track record of success,” said NGA President and CEO Peter J. Larkin. “Each has extensive experience in their areas of expertise and provide NGA with immense knowledge that expands beyond the food industry.”
