NGA Names Christopher Jones VP Gov’t Relations & Counsel

The National Grocers Association (NGA), the trade association representing the independent supermarket industry, has hired Christopher Jones, former legislative director and counsel for U.S. Representative Rick Crawford (R-Ark), a House Agriculture Committee and Nutrition Subcommittee member, as the organization’s VP government relations and counsel. In his new role, Jones will guide the NGA’s team of lobbyists and manage a portfolio of such issues that includes agriculture, nutrition, and regulatory reform.

Jones joined Rep. Crawford’s staff in 2010 as a staff assistant and has held senior roles since 2011. In 2014, he was NGA’s senior manager of government affairs before returning to Crawford’s office. In his time on Capitol Hill, Jones headed a team of legislative aides, led the activities of two subcommittees chaired by Crawford and helped craft the 2014 Farm Bill.

“Chris has an outstanding reputation as a leader on food policy and as a fierce advocate for independent grocers, both on the Hill and as a returning member of our team,” noted Peter J. Larkin, president and CEO of Arlington, Va.-based NGA. “We’re excited to welcome Chris back and significantly expand our efforts to advocate for the independent supermarket industry before Congress and federal agencies.”

“Chris is someone who truly understands the important role independent retailers and wholesalers play in their communities,” added Greg Ferrara, NGA’s SVP of government relations and public affairs. “By bringing him onboard, we’re ensuring independent grocers have an even stronger voice in Washington at a crucial time.”