SNAC International, the trade association representing the snack industry, has appointed Matthew Grill as vice president of advocacy. In this role, Grill will lead the association’s policy efforts on Capitol Hill and with federal agencies.

Grill brings more than a decade of experience in policy and government relations. Most recently, he served as senior director of congressional relations for the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC), where he led the lobbying team for the $57 billion pork industry. During his tenure, Grill helped secure $233 million in annual animal health funding, federal preemption language in the House Agriculture Committee-passed Farm Bill, and statutory authorization for the National Detector Dog Training Center.

Prior to NPPC, Grill was director of federal relations at George Washington University and spent more than six years on Capitol Hill, including roles with the nonpartisan Senate floor staff and the office of Senator Bob Casey (D-PA). A native of PA, Grill holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from American University and a master’s degree in legislative affairs from George Washington University.

“I am most excited about helping SNAC members navigate the complex food policy landscape, and particularly the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Agenda,” says Grill. “How SNAC members answer the policy challenges facing food and the production systems that bring our food onto grocery shelves and into our pantries will have huge implications across the economy, our health, and our access to affordable food.”

As vice president of advocacy, Grill will focus on strengthening relationships with SNAC’s membership, enhancing the association’s presence in Washington, and ensuring the snack industry plays an active role in shaping policy.

“Matthew’s strong bipartisan relationships, extensive experience with food policy issues, and proven record of delivering results make him an invaluable addition to our team,” says Christine Cochran, president and CEO of SNAC International. “We are excited to have him lead SNAC’s advocacy efforts at such a critical time for the food industry.”

Grill notes that evolving consumer demands are reshaping the snack industry. “SNAC’s advocacy is more important than ever to ensure that we maintain a thriving snack industry that satisfies consumers,” he says.

Related: SNAC International to host food regulatory forum