The National Confectioners Association has announced the addition of two members to its public affairs and advocacy department and the re-structuring of several other positions in order to enhance its public policy and advocacy efforts following a year-long strategic planning process.

Joining NCA as vice president of government affairs is Patrick Aylward who most recently served with the chief of staff for the Bush White House. Chris Coleman will join the NCA staff as director of government affairs. Coleman comes to NCA after three years with the National Council of State Legislatures. Heading up the advocacy efforts at NCA is Alison Bodor who has been with the association for ten years. She has been promoted to senior vice president of public policy and advocacy and will be responsible for coordinating all public policy activities for the industry.

Other members of the public affairs and advocacy department at NCA include Melane Rose Boyce in her newly expanded role as vice president of corporate social responsibility and Laura Shumow, manager of technical and regulatory affairs.