NGA Welcomes New EVP/COO

Charles “Charlie” Bray, a veteran association and financial executive with more than 30 years of non-profit association experience, is joining the National Grocers Association team as executive vice president and chief operating officer.

“I am thrilled to be able to have someone of Charlie’s caliber join our team and hope you will give him a warm welcome when he arrives in December,” said Peter Larkin, NGA president and CEO.

With this structural change within NGA, EVP Frank DiPasquale has decided to pursue other opportunities in the food industry, effective immediately. “Frank has dedicated himself to this organization for the last fourteen years and has been a passionate advocate for the independent grocer,” Larkin said. “He will be missed but we wish him well as he embarks on the next exciting chapter in his career.”

Bray most recently served as president and CEO of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions. Previously, Bray was with the non-profit division consulting firm of RSM McGladrey. He also served as president of the Food Processing Suppliers Association and president of the Electronic Retailing Association. From 1978 to 1995, Bray worked in a variety of roles and ultimately rose to the position of senior VP and CFO for the Food Marketing Institute.

Arlington, Va.-based NGA is the national trade association representing the retail and wholesale grocers that comprise the independent sector of the food distribution industry.