Portland, OR – February 16, 2025 – The American Cider Association (ACA) is excited to announce the appointment of Monica Cohen as its new Chief Executive Officer. Cohen, a seasoned executive with leadership roles within the food and beverage industry, succeeds Michelle McGrath, who will be stepping down after a highly successful tenure with the organization.
Cohen, formerly a C-suite executive at Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), brings a wealth of expertise in organizational growth, brand development, and strategic leadership. At DFA, Cohen was instrumental in driving the company’s growth and establishing key partnerships that expanded its market reach. Her diverse background, combining agricultural industry experience with a deep understanding of consumer trends, makes her ideally positioned to lead the ACA into its next phase of development and success.
“I am truly excited to join the American Cider Association at such a pivotal moment for the cider industry,” says Cohen. “With the rapid growth in consumer interest and the exciting innovation happening within the sector, I look forward to collaborating with cidermakers across the country to advance this vibrant industry and ensure its continued success. I also want to thank Michelle McGrath for her exceptional leadership and the incredible foundation she has laid for the ACA.”
Cohen will focus on furthering the ACA’s advocacy efforts at both the federal and state levels, driving business development opportunities for cidermakers, and continuing to grow cider’s visibility among consumers. She also aims to strengthen the ACA’s role as a leading voice for the U.S. cider industry and expand educational initiatives to help cidermakers succeed in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
In announcing Cohen’s appointment, Christine Walter, President of the ACA Board of Directors, expresses confidence in the new CEO’s ability to lead the organization forward: “Monica’s extensive leadership experience, deep industry knowledge, and commitment to driving growth make her the ideal choice to lead the ACA. We are thrilled to welcome her and look forward to her vision for the future of the cider industry.”
McGrath, who has served as the ACA’s CEO for the past eight years, will be departing the organization to pursue new opportunities. Under McGrath’s leadership, the ACA achieved significant milestones, including a major expansion in membership, enhanced industry advocacy, and increased visibility for craft cider. Her unwavering commitment to the cider community and her strategic direction have been integral to the growth of the industry.
“Michelle’s leadership has been instrumental in building the American Cider Association into the organization it is today,” says Walter. “Her passion for the cider industry and tireless efforts on behalf of our members have made a lasting impact. We are grateful for her dedication and wish her the very best in her future endeavors.”
McGrath reflected on her time with the ACA, saying, “It has been an incredible honor to serve as the CEO of the American Cider Association. I am proud of all we’ve accomplished together and excited to see the continued success of the industry. I look forward to seeing where Monica’s leadership takes the ACA as it continues to grow and thrive.”
As the ACA looks to the future, it remains committed to promoting and protecting the interests of cidermakers across the U.S., fostering innovation, and advocating for sound policies that benefit the sector. Cohen’s appointment represents a new chapter for the association as it continues to champion the U.S. cider industry and elevate its profile both domestically and internationally.
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