Michigan Retailers Association (MRA) is excited to announce that Drew Beardslee has joined our team as Vice President of Government Affairs, effective Feb. 17, 2025.
Beardslee brings a wealth of experience in state policy and legislative affairs to MRA. Before joining the team, he served as Director of State Policy for the National Pork Producers Council, where he worked on a variety of state-level policy issues.
Previously, Beardslee held several key positions including Deputy Budget Director and Policy Advisor for the Michigan House Republican Office, and roles in the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and the Michigan Department of Transportation. With a career focused on public policy and government relations, he is well-positioned to advocate on behalf of MRA’s members and the retail industry in Michigan.
“I am thrilled to be joining MRA and looking forward to supporting Michigan’s retailers in their ongoing efforts to succeed and grow,” Beardslee said. “With over a decade working in state government and on policy issues that directly affect Michigan businesses, I’m excited to bring my experience to MRA, where I’ll be focused on advocating for policies that support and improve Michigan’s retail industry.”
A Michigan native, Beardslee is a graduate of Grand Valley State University. His deep roots in the state, combined with his experience navigating legislative issues at a national level, will be valuable assets as he works to support the MRA’s mission and advocacy efforts.
“We are excited to welcome Drew to the MRA team,” said William J. Hallan, President and CEO of the Michigan Retailers Association. “His extensive experience in government affairs and his commitment to supporting Michigan’s businesses are invaluable as we continue to advocate for the retail industry and work on behalf of our members.”
In this role, Beardslee will be focused on strengthening MRA’s advocacy efforts, helping members engage with legislative issues, and ensuring that Michigan’s retail industry remains a strong and influential voice in state government.
