CHICAGO, June 18, 2025 — The Women’s Foodservice Forum is searching for a new chief
executive after Therese Gearhart announced she will retire from the position after
a successor is hired.
Gearhart has served as president and CEO for nearly six years.
She joined the organization after a 20-year career at The Coca-Cola Co.
"Leading
WFF has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career," Gearhart
said in the announcement of her retirement. "In today's complex
marketplace, with intensified competition for talent, our mission is more
critical than ever.”
The
association said it will continue on the mission pursued by Gearhart of encouraging
women to “grow, connect and inspire.”
The group is dedicated to fostering opportunity on both the operator and
supplier side of the foodservice business.
"The
WFF Board, Partners, members and staff sincerely appreciate Therese's
exceptional leadership and profound dedication to our shared mission,"
Kate Jaspon, WFF Chairperson and CFO at Inspire Brands, said in the
announcement of Gearhart’s retirement. "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."
As Managing Editor for IFMA The Food Away from Home Association, Romeo is responsible for generating the group's news and feature content. He brings more than 40 years of experience in covering restaurants to the position.
Cover image courtesy: Closed Loop Project