NGA Names Foundation VP/Exec Director

The National Grocers Association (NGA), the national trade association representing the independent supermarket industry, has appointed Elizabeth Crocker VP and executive director of the NGA Research and Education Foundation (NGA Foundation).

In her new role, Crocker will be responsible for developing the strategy and managing the day-to-day operations of the foundation.

“She joins us during a very exciting time of growth for our organization and the foundation,” noted Peter J. Larkin, president and CEO of Arlington, Va.-based NGA. “With an impressive background in development, outreach and nonprofit work, Elizabeth will be a valuable asset to the foundation.”

“The hiring of an executive director for the NGA Foundation is a part of NGA’s continued commitment to strengthen the independent supermarket industry through research, education and training,” added Neal Berube, chairman of the NGA Foundation board of directors.

Crocker was previously senior director of development and outreach for Reston, Va.-based SHAPE America, where she led all corporate sponsorship, outreach, fundraising, partnerships and business development for the organization. Before that, she was the executive director of the Foundation for Rural Service, a national nonprofit that serves as the philanthropic arm of Arlington-based NTCA-The Rural Broadband Association, for almost eight years. Crocker has also held staff roles in the U.S. Senate and federal agencies.

The NGA Foundation provides independent retailers with tools to create more effective recruiting programs, improve retention efforts, and bolster professional and leadership development opportunities for employees.