Keith Kidwell will assume the role of executive director for the International Foodservice Equipment Distributors, effective January 2024. Kidwell will replace Mike McNeel, who will retire after 11 years leading the foodservice equipment buying group. 

Kidwell and McNeel will work together through the end of the year as part of IFED’s transition plan. 

Kidwell is no stranger to the foodservice industry. He comes to IFED after having spent the past 28 years at Central Restaurant Products, an Indianapolis-based foodservice equipment and supplies dealer. During his tenure with Central Restaurant Products, Kidwell held progressive roles of responsibility and was eventually named president in 2018. Kidwell also served on the IFED board of directors since 2012. Kidwell’s industry involvement also includes serving as a member of the board of directors for the Foodservice Equipment Distributors Association. And in 2020, Kidwell received FE&S Top Achiever – Dealer Award.  

McNeel joined IFED as executive director in 2012. Prior to joining IFED, McNeel held roles at Gaylord Industries and several ITW FEG companies.