WASHINGTON, DC—The National Retail Federation has named Tita Freeman as senior vice president for communications and public affairs. Freeman will drive the communications strategy and positioning for the world’s largest retail trade association. She previously was vice president, communications and strategy, for the US Chamber of Commerce.

In 2010 NRF’s board of directors endorsed a new strategic plan to guide the organization into a new era of increased policy advocacy, communications and grassroots engagement. Earlier this year it tapped David French, a veteran Washington lobbyist, to lead a more robust government relations function. Freeman will grow and enhance the public affairs function.

While at the US Chamber, Freeman led communications, including strategy, media, advertising, marketing, and online, for major initiatives on jobs and the economy, trade expansion, health care reform, and advancing free enterprise.

Prior to the Chamber, Freeman was with Google’s Washington office where she developed the company’s first strategic outreach plan for engaging with trade associations and interest groups. Freeman also spent five years directing communications for the Business Roundtable, an association of CEOs of leading U.S. companies, on issues ranging from corporate governance to energy to education.

Freeman began her career with APCO Worldwide.