WFF's President & CEO Therese Gearhart Announces Retirement as Leadership Transition Begins
The Women’s Foodservice Forum (WFF) recently made a significant announcement regarding the leadership of the organization. Therese Gearhart, who has successfully served as the President and CEO of WFF for five impactful years, has decided to retire. Under her stewardship, WFF has emerged as the largest non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the advancement of professionals within the foodservice industry.
Gearhart's tenure has not been without challenges. She skillfully navigated the unprecedented landscape shaped by the global pandemic and various economic shifts that have affected the foodservice sector. Her forward-thinking leadership facilitated a rapid expansion of WFF's virtual offerings, ensuring that the community remained connected and supported during turbulent times. This shift not only provided industry professionals with essential resources but also reinforced WFF's mission of promoting the growth and development of women in the food service field.
As she prepares for retirement, Gearhart will remain in her role until a successor is appointed and trained, allowing for a seamless leadership transition. WFF's board of directors has initiated a thorough succession process, underscoring their commitment to maintaining the momentum of the organization and its mission. WFF continues to focus on its core principles of "Grow, Connect, and Inspire," which has driven their impactful professional development programs, networking opportunities, and engagement with industry role models.
In announcing her retirement, Gearhart expressed, "Leading WFF has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. In today's complex marketplace, with intensified competition for talent, our mission is more critical than ever. We will continue to empower leaders to own their development and to lean in to WFF for that continuous support and community, wherever they are in their careers."
Kate Jaspon, the WFF Board Chair and CFO at Inspire Brands, added, "The WFF Board, partners, members, and staff sincerely appreciate Therese's exceptional leadership and profound dedication to our shared mission. We are confident we will identify a successor who will not only build on our strong foundation but also continue the momentum to propel our organization forward."
Since its establishment in 1989, WFF has supported professionals at every stage of their careers, aiming to strengthen the foodservice talent pipeline by offering a variety of tools, resources, and professional development opportunities. The forum has fostered an inclusive environment where both men and women can build leadership competencies conducive to career advancement. With a vision to address the pressing need for talent in the industry, WFF leverages research, insights, and best practices to enhance business performance by promoting inclusive leadership strategies.
As WFF transitions into its next chapter, it remains committed to delivering value and impact for its members, emphasizing access to essential networking connections, mentorship, and inspiration. With Gearhart's departure marking the end of a noteworthy era, WFF's future looks promising as it continues to advocate for diversity and empowerment within the foodservice industry.
Gearhart's tenure has not been without challenges. She skillfully navigated the unprecedented landscape shaped by the global pandemic and various economic shifts that have affected the foodservice sector. Her forward-thinking leadership facilitated a rapid expansion of WFF's virtual offerings, ensuring that the community remained connected and supported during turbulent times. This shift not only provided industry professionals with essential resources but also reinforced WFF's mission of promoting the growth and development of women in the food service field.
As she prepares for retirement, Gearhart will remain in her role until a successor is appointed and trained, allowing for a seamless leadership transition. WFF's board of directors has initiated a thorough succession process, underscoring their commitment to maintaining the momentum of the organization and its mission. WFF continues to focus on its core principles of "Grow, Connect, and Inspire," which has driven their impactful professional development programs, networking opportunities, and engagement with industry role models.
In announcing her retirement, Gearhart expressed, "Leading WFF has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. In today's complex marketplace, with intensified competition for talent, our mission is more critical than ever. We will continue to empower leaders to own their development and to lean in to WFF for that continuous support and community, wherever they are in their careers."
Kate Jaspon, the WFF Board Chair and CFO at Inspire Brands, added, "The WFF Board, partners, members, and staff sincerely appreciate Therese's exceptional leadership and profound dedication to our shared mission. We are confident we will identify a successor who will not only build on our strong foundation but also continue the momentum to propel our organization forward."
Since its establishment in 1989, WFF has supported professionals at every stage of their careers, aiming to strengthen the foodservice talent pipeline by offering a variety of tools, resources, and professional development opportunities. The forum has fostered an inclusive environment where both men and women can build leadership competencies conducive to career advancement. With a vision to address the pressing need for talent in the industry, WFF leverages research, insights, and best practices to enhance business performance by promoting inclusive leadership strategies.
As WFF transitions into its next chapter, it remains committed to delivering value and impact for its members, emphasizing access to essential networking connections, mentorship, and inspiration. With Gearhart's departure marking the end of a noteworthy era, WFF's future looks promising as it continues to advocate for diversity and empowerment within the foodservice industry.
Topics People & Culture）
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