CHICAGO, January 24, 2025 — In support of IFMA The Food Away from Home Association’s strategic plan, the organization announced today that they have expanded responsibilities for three key positions, all designed to meet the needs of its members and the industry.

“We are an association with a 70+ year legacy and over the past two years we have been on a journey of building upon that and transforming to better serve our community,” said Phil Kafarakis, president and CEO. “As a result of our recent strategic planning work, we’ve expanded responsibilities for three critical positions, and we’re excited to recognize these individuals who continue to play an integral role in moving us forward as we serve the food-away-from-home ecosystem.” 

Mike Schwartz named Senior Vice President – Chief Engagement & Innovation Officer
As he celebrates his 10-year anniversary with the Association, Mike is taking on additional responsibilities for driving strategic membership growth, engagement, and retention. The Vice President of Member Advancement will report directly to Mike in this additional responsibility, while Mike continues to have direct management over the association’s programming, research, education, event, and Foodservice Leadership Council (FLC) strategies. He will also be focused on developing strategic partnerships that advance the association’s mission and bring solutions to its members.  Mike will continue to report to the CEO. 

Charlie McConnell promoted to Vice President, Industry Insights, Education & Research
Since joining the organization in 2018 as Senior Director of Insights & Best Practices, Charlie has led several research and share group programs, managed the FLCs, and has brought the association’s webinar and education programs, including its longstanding Foodservice FundamentalsTM class, to new heights. In this elevated role, he will join the association’s leadership team and be responsible for guiding the association’s approach to market research, data analysis, and building out the organization’s education platform. He will also play a more visible role in the industry, lending his and the association’s perspectives on critical issues. 

Courtney Sriha named Senior Director, Event Programming
Given the impactful contributions made to the Association’s programming since her arrival two years ago, Courtney’s duties are being expanded to manage all event programming. This not only includes the association’s annual events – COEX, Gold & Silver Plate Awards Celebration, Marketing & Sales Conference, and Presidents Conference – but takes into consideration new programs the association will build to meet its members’ needs. Additionally, Courtney will play a more prominent role in relationship management with individuals within the association’s key communities. 

For all three individuals, the expanded responsibilities are effective immediately. Both Charlie and Courtney will continue to report to Mike.
 
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