The National Confectioners Association has appointed Brian M. McKeon to the role of senior v.p. of public policy. 

McKeon officially starts his new position on August 30 and succeeds long-time NCA staff member Liz Clark who was recently appointed CEO of IHRSA, the global health & fitness association.

In this position, McKeon will lead the association’s government affairs strategy, oversee grassroots activities, manage the CandyPAC and focus on proactive efforts to influence public policy that impacts the confectionery industry.

“Brian will hit the ground running with his deep understanding of the issues our industry faces, and his perspective and experience will be an asset as we work to achieve our bold, inspirational vision,” said NCA President & CEO John Downs. “We are excited to welcome Brian to NCA. He will be an invaluable member of our team and a major asset to the chocolate and candy industry.”

McKeon brings more than 15 years of experience to his new role at NCA and deep knowledge of the inner workings of Congress and the administration. He comes to NCA directly from Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck LLP, where he spent the last five years as a senior member of the team. 

McKeon began his career serving on political campaigns and Capitol Hill. He was senior counsel to former U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer and legislative director and acting chief of staff for Senator Jeanne Shaheen. McKeon also brings extensive experience with the policymaking and regulatory process, as well as a diverse political network and understanding of the issues the confectionery industry faces today.

McKeon is from Auburn, NY, and is a graduate of College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA, with a J.D. from the Catholic University of America’s Columbus School of Law in Washington, D.C.  He lives in Arlington, VA, with his wife and two children.