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Major Leadership Appointments in Foodservice

The Women's Foodservice Forum (WFF) has announced the appointment of a distinguished board of directors for 2026, featuring some of the most influential executives in the foodservice industry. These leaders will work collaboratively to guide the WFF's strategic priorities, focusing on leadership development and the strategic enhancement of talent pipelines across the sector. In today’s rapidly changing and complex business environment, the insights and skills that these executives bring are invaluable to enhancing overall performance within their respective organizations.

WFF, established as a premier nonprofit organization dedicated to professional development within the foodservice landscape, is proud to collaborate with these seasoned leaders. Their combined expertise aims to create limitless opportunities for operators, manufacturers, distributors, and allied partners, ensuring that the future of the foodservice industry is in capable hands.

New Leadership Structure and Goals

Kelli Valade, President and CEO of WFF, expressed her enthusiasm about the new board, stating, "Impact starts at the top with leaders who understand our industry, are committed to its growth, and are ready to foster work environments that create greater opportunities for everyone."

Valade emphasized that the collaboration with these industry veterans is significant in advancing WFF’s mission of changing the face of leadership. She believes that having effective leaders is crucial for fostering a more inclusive and performance-driven workplace. The range of senior leaders now in place showcases a commitment to diversifying leadership within the foodservice sector while driving financial performance and organizational advancement.

Dawn Rasmussen, the Chief Revenue Officer at Woodland Gourmet, has been appointed as the Chair of the 2026 Board of Directors. "The WFF Board is composed of individuals who share a profound dedication to supporting one another’s career growth while strengthening the entire industry," said Rasmussen. Her perspective highlights the board's commitment to nurturing upcoming leaders through robust leadership development programs, both online and in-person.

Notable Executive Committee Members

Accompanying Rasmussen in leadership roles for the 2026 WFF Board are other notable professionals:

• - Brooke Buchanan, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at Panera Bread
• - Christie Cook, VP of Human Resources at DINE Brands Global
• - Sandy Furbee, Senior Director of Product Development at Nestlé
• - Janicka Green, Divisional VP of Operations at LongHorn Steakhouse, Darden Restaurants
• - Jeff Swinton, VP of Market Strategies at CJ Schwan's Company
• - Andra Stan, VP of North America at McCain Foods
• - Elizabeth Ubell, SVP and Chief Strategy Officer at Sysco Foods

This diverse group reflects the varied expertise available within the foodservice industry, bringing unique perspectives to the challenges faced and the opportunities pursued in the coming years.

WFF's Commitment to Future Leaders

In alignment with their goals, WFF has long recognized the pressing need for talent within the foodservice industry. They are dedicated to driving consumer insights and delivering business performance by tapping into the full potential of their leaders—both men and women. By fostering environments conducive to growth and inclusivity, WFF aims to ensure that all organizations within the sector benefit from the advantages of a diverse workforce.

For more information about WFF and its initiatives, you can visit wff.org.

As leaders come together for the 2026 WFF Board of Directors, the future of the foodservice industry looks promising, bolstered by a strong emphasis on leadership, development, and diversity. This strategic leadership will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in navigating the complexities of the industry and driving it toward a fruitful and equitable future.