GMA Gives N.Y. Food Industry’s Michael Rosen Gov’t Affairs Award

The Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) has bestowed the 2014 Excellence in Government Affairs Award on Michael E. Rosen, president and CEO of the Albany-based Food Industry Alliance of New York State (FIA). The annual award, presented this year at an Oct. 30 industry event in Rye, N.Y., goes to a state association executive who has championed public policy initiatives in state and local jurisdictions on behalf of food, beverage and consumer products manufacturers and their retailer 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," explained Amanda Hagan, VP of state affairs for Washington, D.C.-based GMA. "His leadership was fundamental to ensuring successful outcomes on key issues in Albany during the 2014 legislative season."

Rosen was FIA SVP and general counsel for 27 years before stepping up to lead the organization earlier this year. Before joining FIA, he 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," added Hagan.

Established in 1997, the GMA Excellence in Government Affairs Award has previously gone to such industry luminaries as Linda Doherty, of the New Jersey Food Council; Stan Sorkin, of the Connecticut Food Association; and Ronnie Volkening, of the Texas Retailers Association.