#United States #Dallas #WFF #Kelli Valade #Women’s Foodservice Forum

Kelli Valade Takes Charge as President and CEO of WFF

In a significant move for the foodservice industry, Kelli Valade has been appointed as the new President and CEO of the Women’s Foodservice Forum (WFF), a premier non-profit organization committed to developing leaders in the sector. Valade’s appointment follows an extensive search and will officially commence in February, succeeding Therese Gearhart, who announced her retirement after a successful tenure.

WFF has been at the forefront of advocacy for women's leadership in foodservice since its inception in 1989. With over three decades of experience, the organization focuses on creating dynamic environments where all professionals can thrive. Kelli Valade’s extensive background in the foodservice industry positions her well to carry forward WFF's mission.

Valade previously held distinguished positions in the industry, including CEO of Denny's Corp., where she led initiatives to enhance guest experiences and operational efficiencies. Before joining Denny's in 2022, she served as the CEO of Red Lobster and held critical roles at Black Box Intelligence and Chili's Bar & Grill. Her vast experience equips her to helm WFF during a time when strong leadership is crucial for the industry's growth and evolution.

Dawn Rasmussen, the Chief Revenue Officer at Woodland Gourmet and Chair of the WFF Board, expressed confidence in Valade’s leadership capabilities. “Kelli is uniquely qualified to lead WFF at this pivotal time,” she stated. Her deep understanding of the foodservice landscape and commitment to furthering WFF’s objectives will undoubtedly help build a robust network of leaders.

Valade's vision includes advancing leadership development initiatives that emphasize creating limitless opportunities for individuals climbing the career ladder, thus supporting the various companies they work for. As the foodservice sector grapples with complexities in operations and strives for growth, she is keen to ensure a steady pipeline of qualified leaders ready to meet these challenges.

As a long-time member of WFF, Valade recognizes the value of the organization in her own career journey. She has not only been an active participant but also a speaker at leadership conferences and has contributed as a board member. “It is an honor to lead WFF—an organization that has played a significant role in my own professional journey,” she shared. Valade is enthusiastic about working alongside the dedicated WFF team and the board of directors, who are influential leaders from various segments of the foodservice industry. Together, they aim to enhance WFF's impact on individual careers and bolster the value delivered to supporting partner companies.

For more than three decades, WFF has been a cornerstone in providing professional development resources tailored to the foodservice sector. Its partnerships with operators, manufacturers, distributors, and allied partners have been pivotal in shaping future leaders, ensuring that the industry not only survives but thrives in a competitive marketplace.

The appointment of Kelli Valade marks a new chapter in WFF’s journey. Under her leadership, the organization is expected to strengthen its initiatives for leadership development, directly contributing to the advancement of the foodservice industry. As WFF prepares for its upcoming events and leadership conferences, Valade’s approach will likely bring fresh energy and innovative ideas to the table, cementing WFF's role as a transformative force in the foodservice landscape.