NGA hires leaders in government affairs and finance

June 25, 2026 Washington, D.C. – The National Grocers Association BB #:163424, the trade association representing the independent supermarket industry, today announced the appointment of Macy Lemon as vice president of state government affairs and Mark McLaughlin as vice president of finance & administration.

Lemon will lead NGA’s state government affairs strategy, working with state legislatures, governors’ offices, coalitions, and state partners to advance policies that support independent supermarkets and the communities they serve.

Lemon most recently worked for Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry campaign, where she served as associate director of state government relations. In that role, she developed and executed state-level legislative strategies, managed state contract advocacy groups, and coalition partners to advance policies related to nutrition, healthcare access, and public benefits. She previously worked for the American Enterprise Institute, leading state and federal domestic policy issues.

“Macy brings a unique combination of state government expertise, coalition-building experience, and a deep understanding of policies that impact food retailers,” said Stephanie Johnson, NGA SVP and head of government affairs. “Her proven ability to navigate complex state policy environments and build strong relationships with policymakers will be a tremendous asset as we continue advocating for independent grocers across the country.”

As vice president of finance and administration, McLaughlin will oversee NGA’s financial operations, budgeting, accounting, compliance, and administrative functions, helping ensure the association’s continued fiscal strength and operational excellence.

McLaughlin brings extensive financial leadership experience spanning nonprofit, political, and public-sector organizations. Most recently, he served as chief financial officer at the Democratic National Committee, where he managed financial operations, budgeting, forecasting, accounting, financial reporting, and compliance across multiple affiliated nonprofit and joint fundraising entities. Previously, he served as director of finance at Arlington Public Schools, overseeing budget management, financial reporting, audits, grant accounting, capital projects, and a broad range of financial operations supporting one of the region’s largest public school systems.

“Mark is a highly accomplished financial executive with a strong record of managing complex organizations and implementing sound fiscal practices,” said Jonathan Downey, NGA’s chief operating officer. “His expertise in budgeting, financial reporting, compliance, and organizational management will help ensure NGA continues to operate efficiently while delivering value to our members.”

Contact: NGA Communications Office
communications@nationalgrocers.org