RILA Grows Public Affairs Team by Two

Additions signal increased focus on state affairs

The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) recently welcomed the addition of two new members to the public affairs team, Jason Brewer, who will serve as executive vice president, communications & state affairs and Brian Rose, director, state affairs & advocacy.  

Jason Brewer, who was previously a member of RILA’s communication’s team, is returning after serving as vice president for government affairs and strategic initiatives at the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA). Prior to joining AHLA, he spent six years playing an integral role in RILA’s communications and campaign activities, and in his new role, will lead the association’s communications and state affairs programs. 

Brian Rose joins RILA from DDC Public Affairs, where he served in increasingly senior roles during his four-year tenure. As director of state affairs & advocacy, Rose will be RILA’s day to day lead monitoring state government affairs and will contribute to the execution of RILA’s public policy campaigns.  

“We are thrilled to have Jason back on the team, bringing great experience and creativity to the industry’s advocacy efforts,” said Brian Dodge, senior executive vice president, public affairs. “Brian Rose is a talented campaign operative who will be a valuable resource to our members. Working together with our state partners, Jason and Brian will help the industry navigate complex issues at the state and local level.” 

In addition to welcoming Brewer and Rose on board, RILA announced that RILA’s Senior Vice President for Government Affairs will be departing to association to become a partner at a public affairs firm, Align Public Strategies. In this role, Rinzel will continue to represent RILA as a client of the firm. Rinzel is departing RILA after eleven years overseeing our valued partnerships with state retail associations and guiding efforts on a range of policy issues. 

“In his eleven years with RILA, Joe has been a tremendous asset to the team and to our members, both at the state and federal level. We look forward to continuing to rely on his skill and judgement in this new capacity,” added Dodge. 

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RILA is the trade association of the world's largest and most innovative retail companies. RILA members include more than 200 retailers, product manufacturers, and service suppliers, which together account for more than $1.5 trillion in annual sales, millions of American jobs and more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities and distribution centers.  

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