Women’s Foodservice Forum Names New CEO

Effective next month, Kelli Valade becomes the president and CEO of the nonprofit Women’s Foodservice Forum. She succeeds Therese Gearhart, the CEO since 2019, who is set to retire.

Valade will lead the organization’s staff and work with industry leaders to advance leadership development and more.

“Kelli is uniquely qualified to lead WFF at this pivotal time,” says Dawn Rasmussen, chief revenue officer of Woodland Gourmet and chair of the WFF Board. “She brings a proven record of leadership, a deep understanding of our industry, and a long-standing commitment to WFF’s mission of helping members connect, grow and be inspired to reach their potential throughout their careers.”

Looking Ahead

The nonprofit is set to hold its 2026 Leadership Conference March 2-4 at the Hilton Anatole Hotel in Dallas. The event is expected to bring together over 2,500 professionals representing every sector of the foodservice ecosystem, from restaurant operations to manufacturing to distribution. Learn more here.