Group names SVP Brad Close as acting president. Duggan had joined National Federation of Independent Business in 2016

Duggan

Juanita Duggan has left the National Federation of Independent Business after nearly four years as CEO.

The $100 million-revenue organization issued a remarkably brief statement late Friday stating that Senior Vice President for Public Policy and Advocacy Brad Close has been chosen as acting president to replace Duggan.

"NFIB will continue to serve America's small and independent businesses with great dedication under the leadership of Brad Close," NFIB board chair Steve Schramm said in the statement. "The organization appreciates the years of service of, and has best wishes for, a bright future for the departing president, Juanita D. Duggan."

Close has been with NFIB for more than 17 years, according to the statement. He was promoted to the senior vice president role by Duggan.

Duggan joined NFIB in 2016 after leading the American Apparel & Footwear Association for two years. Her compensation in 2018 was nearly $1.3 million as she led one of the biggest-spending lobby groups in Washington, D.C. NFIB reported spending nearly $39 million on lobbying in 2018, according to IRS figures.

Earlier in her career, Duggan also had led the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America and the American Forest & Paper Association. Duggan also was a special assistant to Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush.