WASHINGTON -- The National Confectioners Association (NCA) has announced three new additions to the organization’s executive team. Elise Fennig has been named to the newly created position of chief of staff, Karen Horan has been promoted to vice president of global business development and Laura Shumow has been promoted to vice president of scientific and regulatory affairs.
“Elise, Karen and Laura are welcome additions to the NCA executive team,” said John Downs, NCA president and CEO. “With their expertise and backgrounds, I’m confident all three will help the association on its path to fulfilling the confectionery industry’s vision: that the public understands and appreciates candy’s unique role in a happy, balanced lifestyle.”
As chief of staff for NCA, Fennig will work closely with Downs on priority special projects related to the annual business plan and strategic plan, as well as provide oversight for the association’s industry affairs, membership, global business development and human resources functions to ensure the successful implementation of the organization’s strategic plan.
Fennig was most recently with The Kraft Heinz Co., acting as a liaison between Kraft Heinz and the company’s retail customers and trade association partners. She also held a leadership position at the Grocery Manufacturers Association, serving as vice president of industry affairs where she directed and managed industry initiatives and projects in the areas of supply-chain management, technology, sales and industry performance.
Laura Shumow, who has served NCA for seven years, will oversee the association’s scientific and regulatory agendas. She has created a scientific knowledge base for the confectionery industry that is the foundation of its moderation and responsibility messaging. Because of her efforts, confectionery became one of the first industries to have a definition of moderation accepted into a peer-reviewed journal. In addition to being highly regarded by her peers at USDA and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), NCA members rely on her counsel when it comes to fundamental questions regarding food safety and labeling.
In her new role as vice president of global business development, Horan will continue to foster international presence for American candy brands and build upon the association’s successful participation in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Market Access Program. She has been with NCA for 15 years, using MAP funding for initiatives that include a comprehensive review of the global legislative and regulatory environment.
Her work in strengthening the global presence of customers at the Sweets & Snacks Expo has translated into increased revenue for the show’s exhibitors.
The NCA is the trade organization representing the $35 billion U.S. confections industry.
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