The National Stone, Sand and Gravel Association (NSSGA) announced that veteran trade association executive Michael W. Johnson will serve as the group’s next president and CEO, effective Aug. 1. He succeeds R. A. “Gus” Edwards, III, who is retiring after more than 16 years with NSSGA.
Johnson is currently the executive vice president and chief advocacy officer of the National Beer Wholesalers Association. Since joining NBWA in 2006, Johnson’s leadership has been instrumental in developing and advancing the association’s strategic, member-focused advocacy agenda, which has resulted in achieving public policy objectives and reinvigorating membership programs.
C. Howard Nye, chairman of the NSSGA Board of Directors and president and CEO of Martin Marietta Materials, Raleigh, N.C., said, “NSSGA is very fortunate to have Mike Johnson coming on board at this critical time. He’s a proven leader with a wealth of experience that will serve our membership well as the aggregates industry negotiates its way through a sluggish national economy and the upcoming surface transportation program reauthorization. The addition of Mike Johnson to an already excellent NSSGA staff will strengthen its ability to pursue the membership’s objectives. On behalf of the Board, I would also like to thank Gus Edwards and the NSSGA staff for their outstanding commitment to the NSSGA and its membership.”
Johnson is familiar with the construction industry, having spent nearly five years with the National Association of Home Builders. His association work also includes six years with the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America. Johnson began his career with then-Senate Majority Whip Wendell H. Ford (D-Ky.).
Recognized as a dedicated advocate, effective communicator and relationship builder, Johnson was named a “Leading Association Lobbyist” in 2012 and a “Young and Aspiring Association Executive” in 2007 by Association TRENDS magazine.
Johnson holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and journalism from the University of Kentucky in Lexington.