CGA Names Government Relations Manager

The California Grocers Association (CGA) has hired Dane Hutchings as government relations manager, effective immediately.

Hutchings is responsible for bill tracking and analysis, regulatory analysis, member relations and grassroots development. In addition, he will work with CGA members to develop positions and draft advocacy messages as well as represent the organization before the Legislature.

“Dane’s government and public affairs knowledge will be of considerable value to CGA as the association continues to raise the bar in its advocacy efforts,” said CGA VP, government relations, Keri Askew Bailey.

Hutchings began working with Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide in 2010, serving as the interface between the government affairs and public affairs practice areas. He was responsible for advocacy and support for multiple California legislative and regulatory issue areas including: renewable energy, transportation, toxic substances, small business, revenue and tax, and labor while cultivating and maintaining relationships with legislative members, key policy staff, as well as numerous trade associations and contract lobbyists.

Most notably, Hutchings was part of the communications and outreach team for the California high-speed rail statewide infrastructure project, as well as overseeing the execution of a high-school awareness campaign for the California Office of Traffic Safety – highlighting the dangers of texting and driving. Prior to that, Hutchings worked as a legislative aide for Mattos & Associates, a government relations firm specializing in association management.

Sacramento-based CGA is a non-profit trade association representing approximately 500 retail members operating over 6,000 stores in California and Nevada.