May 13, 2014

ARLINGTON, VA — May 13, 2014 — The Food Marketing Institute (FMI) is pleased to announce the appointment of Stephanie Kay Barnes as regulatory counsel.   

Barnes will represent FMI and advocate on behalf of its members for reasonable regulations across numerous federal agencies; help FMI food retailers and wholesalers comply with regulations; and advise them on federal rules related to food safety and other priority issues.

FMI Senior Vice President of Government and Public Affairs Jennifer Hatcher commented on Barnes’ addition to the department, saying, “Stephanie’s unique experience in food law and her background in environmental and consumer advocacy will help our members navigate and improve the morass of challenging federal regulations they face each day in their collective 40,000 food retail stores.”

Prior to joining FMI, Barnes was senior manager, food portfolio and global programs, at the Food and Drug Law Institute where she was responsible for leading and carrying on the institute’s global initiative. A published subject matter expert, she also spent several years as the institute’s editor for Update magazine, a bi-monthly publication delivering news to the food and drug law community.

Barnes held support positions at the Environmental Working Group, Environmental Protection Agency and the American Beverage Association’s Office of the General Counsel. She is a political science graduate of Michigan State University. Barnes attended Georgetown University Law School and Wayne State University Law School where she received her law degree. Barnes is also an active member of the State Bar of Virginia.