WASHINGTON, D.C. – During the All Membership Meeting of ABA’s 2014 Convention, the ABA membership approved a new slate of officers for the ABA Board of Directors. Rich Scalise, Chairman and CEO of Hearthside Food Solutions, was named ABA Chairman for the March 2014 to March 2016 term. Fred Penny, President of Bimbo Bakeries USA, remains the First Vice Chairman and Past ABA Chairman Allen Shiver, President and CEO of Flowers Foods, serves as the Second Vice Chairman. Erin Sharp, Group Vice President, Manufacturing of The Kroger Co., replaced longtime ABA Treasurer Albert Lepage of Lepage Bakeries, Inc.
On stage at the All Membership Meeting, Lepage was thanked for his nearly two decades of dedication and service to ABA and the baking industry. Robin Alton, President and CEO of Pan-O-Gold Baking Company, was also acknowledged for his valuable contributions as the 2012-2014 ABA Chairman before assuming the role of Immediate Past Chairman.
“The success of our association and the baking industry depends upon the exceptional leadership of the ABA Executive Committee and Board of Directors. These leaders volunteer their time and expertise to ensure the continued strength and growth of our industry,” noted Robb MacKie, ABA President and CEO. “ABA has been blessed throughout its history to have strong, committed and engaged leaders.”
The following individuals have been welcomed as new Directors for the Board:
- Brad Alexander, President, Flowers Bakeries
- Chad Coester, Vice President, U.S. Grocery Manufacturing, Safeway, Inc., Manufacturing Division
- Chris Foley, Senior Vice President and GM of Fresh and Frozen Bakery, Pepperidge Farm, Inc.
- Cordia Harrington, CEO, Tennessee Bun Company
- Miles Jones, Co-Chairman, Dawn Food Products, Inc.
Stepping down after years of outstanding service to the Board of Directors are: J. Bowman Williams, Jr. of B.C. Williams Bakery Services, David Murphy of Mother Murphy’s Flavors, and John Hink of Quality Bakery/Rite-Way.
ABA looks forward to the leadership and guidance of the 2014-2016 Board of Directors. These leaders serve as excellent ambassadors for both the association and the baking industry. To view the complete roster of the new ABA Board of Directors, click here.
About the American Bakers Association:
The American Bakers Association (ABA) is the Washington D.C.-based voice of the wholesale baking industry. Since 1897, ABA has represented the interests of bakers before the U.S. Congress, federal agencies, and international regulatory authorities. ABA advocates on behalf of more than 700 baking facilities and baking company suppliers. ABA members produce bread, rolls, crackers, bagels, sweet goods, tortillas and many other wholesome, nutritious, baked products for America’s families. The baking industry generates more than $102 billion in economic activity annually and employs more than 706,000 highly skilled people.
Source: American Bakers Association
