ARLINGTON, Va. — The Consumer Brands Association announced today that Melissa Hockstad will become the organization’s new president and chief executive officer effective January 6, 2025. Hockstad joins Consumer Brands from her role as president and CEO of the American Cleaning Institute (ACI).

“Melissa was a standout candidate from a pool of very talented leaders. She will bring strategic vision, in-depth knowledge and a track record of driving progress and growth to Consumer Brands,” said Linda Rendle, Consumer Brands board chair, and chair and CEO of The Clorox Company. “We are pleased to welcome Melissa to Consumer Brands and are confident she will drive forward the essential policy priorities of our growing membership as well as meet the evolving needs of consumers.”

Hockstad has led ACI since 2017, advancing policies in support of the $60 billion U.S. cleaning product supply chain. In her 25 years of executive experience, she has also held leadership roles at the American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM), the Plastics Industry Association, the Society of Chemical Manufacturers & Affiliates (SOCMA) and Basell Polyolefins (now LyondellBasell). In 2023, Hockstad was named Association Executive of the Year by Association TRENDS and CEO Update.

“It’s an honor to be chosen to lead a dynamic industry that is directly enhancing consumers’ lives by making safe, affordable and convenient products,” said Hockstad. “I look forward to continuing the work of the talented team at Consumer Brands and representing America’s most loved and trusted brands.”

Hockstad joins Consumer Brands at a time of great momentum. Delivering strong advocacy and policy results, the association continues to grow its membership across the food, beverage, household and personal care sectors. Earlier this year, the association announced the addition of nearly a dozen new members.

“Melissa is an experienced and accomplished leader who is well-positioned to build on the association’s successes and help guide our future,” said Billy Cyr, CEO, Freshpet, Inc. and leader of the CEO search committee. “She is the right person to lead Consumer Brands at this time when it is so important to champion our industry that supports millions of jobs and plays a vital part in people’s daily lives.”

Hockstad will succeed David Chavern who was named president and CEO of the American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) in September 2024.

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The Consumer Brands Association champions the industry that makes the products you choose and the brands you trust. From household and personal care to food and beverage products, the consumer packaged goods industry plays a vital role in powering the U.S. economy, contributing $2 trillion to U.S. GDP and supporting more than 20 million American jobs.