Belcastro heads to Hillshire Brands

DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. — A Grocery Manufacturers Association executive is taking on a new role at Hillshire Brands.

Dennis Belcastro has been named VP government and industry affairs for Hillshire Brands and will be responsible for developing and implementing the company's engagement strategy with federal, state and local elected officials, regulatory agencies and key policy-makers, in addition to managing strategic customer and industry events. Belcastro officially steps into his new role on July 30.

Most recently, Belcastro was EVP industry affairs and collaboration at the Grocery Manufacturers Association. At GMA, he led the Industry Affairs Council, one of three key industry guidance and governance committees that represent more than 300 leading food, beverage and consumer product companies.

"Denny's ability to facilitate relationships with all levels of government and across the industry will help Hillshire Brands navigate and respond to the regulatory environment that surrounds modern food production," Hillshire Brands CEO Sean Connolly said. "We are pleased to have him bring his knowledge of the industry and food business acumen to Hillshire Brands."