GMA Names EVP, Global Strategies

Sean Darragh has been appointed the Grocery Manufacturers Association’s (GMA) EVP, global strategies, a newly created position within the Washington-based trade organization.

In this role, which he will assume on June 6, Darragh is responsible for expanding GMA’s international program by defining and effectively executing a global policy and advocacy strategy that’s fully integrated into the association’s strategic plan. He will head GMA’s efforts to further develop and employ international public policy and advocacy tools to advance the global commerce interests of the consumer packaged goods industry. Darragh will also serve as a member of the senior staff team.

“Our world is becoming increasingly interdependent, and the food, beverage and CPG sector is a vital part of both the U.S. and global economies,” noted GMA president and CEO Pamela G. Bailey, to whom Darragh will report directly. “There are international implications within each of GMA’s strategic areas of focus, and I am certain that Sean is the right person to take GMA’s international capability, strategic planning and execution to the next level of effectiveness.”

Darragh is now EVP, international affairs at Washington-based Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO), in which capacity he leads BIO’s international regulatory and policy advocacy operations, and oversees its efforts to build its international presence, membership and global reach. Before taking on that role, Darragh was EVP for BIO’s food and agriculture division, for which he directed the diplomatic, legislative, regulatory and communications strategy.

Prior to joining BIO, Darragh was deputy VP, international, at the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers Association in Washington. He has additionally held a variety of federal government positions, among them principal deputy assistant secretary of defense, principal trade negotiator at the Office of the United States Trade Representative and senior advisor to the deputy secretary of the treasury. Darragh was also the White House’s director for global issues and multilateral affairs.