Washington — Tony Jacobs, president of Bazooka Candy Brands, has taken on the role of chair of the NCA Board of Trustees for a two-year term. Jacobs most recently served as vice-chair and takes over from departing Chair Barry Rosenbaum, president of Nassau Candy Distributors.
“Tony’s keen understanding of policy and politics, and his knowledge of the industry make him an incredibly effective thought leader for our industry,” says John Downs, NCA president and CEO.
“I am honored to take on this role to advocate on behalf of hundreds of confectionery companies and the nearly 58,000 American workers they employ,” adds Jacobs. “In a challenging environment, our industry remains strong and vibrant as consumers, now more than ever, want treats in their lives. I look forward to working with the NCA membership and staff to ensure the continued strength of this cherished industry.”
Jacobs served as the association’s political action committee chair and was instrumental in building an effective and successful CandyPAC. Prior to leading Bazooka Candy Brands, Jacobs worked for more than a decade in marketing roles at Nabisco, Unilever and Dr Pepper Snapple Group. A native of New Jersey, he earned his B.A. in political science from The George Washington University and an M.B.A. from The Darden Graduate School of Business Administration at the University of Virginia.
During its recent State of the Industry Conference, NCA also announced several appointments to its Board of Trustees. Jerry Hagedorn, executive vice-president of Barry Callebaut is stepping into the position of vice-chair of the board.
Five industry representatives are joining the board, they are:
- Carrie Abbott, Newfangled Confections
- John Kretchmer, American Licorice Company
- Rob Nelson, Elmer Chocolate
- Stephanie Stuckey, Stuckey’s
- Steve Gohde, The Allan Sullivan Company
