Phil Kafarakis will become president and CEO of the International Foodservice Manufacturers Association, effective November 1, 2021. He takes over for Larry Oberkfell, who announced his intent to return to industry earlier this year. Oberkfell’s time with IFMA spans 12 years.
Marra Forni hired John Blizzard to serve as a regional sales manager for the central region and Eric Holder as director of technical service and support for the Maryland-based manufacturer of ovens for use in commercial kitchens.
The Society for Hospitality and Foodservice Management unveiled its leadership for 2021-22. Rob Gebhardt of JLL will become the 2021-22 SHFM president in December. Damian Monticello of GuideWell will transition to immediate past president from president at that time.
Two longtime associates acquire Preferred Source. 4-Star Reps adds to its culinary acumen while Greenwald and Mirk add to their line cards.
Chris Wescott was appointed chief executive officer for Iron Hill Brewery, a 20-unit craft brewery and restaurant concept. Wescott comes to Iron Hill after most recently serving as CEO of Rosa Mexicano, a full-service restaurant with locations in New York City and other metropolitan markets.
Papa John's International promoted Max Wetzel to executive vice president, chief commercial officer.
Fast-casual restaurant chain MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes promoted Mike Sebazco to executive vice president of operations and development. He previously served as vice president of operations and development for four years.
Middleby Companies Pitco and QualServ are poised to make investments in their infrastructure.
CKE Restaurants Holdings, parent company of Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s, updated its operating structure to combine restaurant operations and supply chain under John Dunion, a 25-year company veteran. As part of this reorganization, Dunion was promoted to CKE’s chief operating officer from chief supply chain officer.
Bernard Acoca has resigned from his roles of president, CEO and director for El Pollo Loco. Acoca left El Pollo Loco to pursue other opportunities, per a release announcing the transition.
The acquisition activity among foodservice equipment manufacturers and dealers has maintained its brisk pace. The latest deal has Electrolux Professional acquiring Unified Brands for approximately $244 million. The deal is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2021 and remains subject to customary closing conditions, etc., per a release announcing the deal.
Nexstep Commercial Products promoted Erin Busch to vice president of sales and marketing.
In a deal valued at $161.3 million, fast-casual chain BurgerFi will acquire Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza & Wings from L Catterton. The companies anticipate the deal will close in the fourth quarter of 2021 at which time L Catterton will become one of BurgerFi’s largest shareholders, per a release announcing the transaction.
Former Domino’s Pizza executive John King was named senior vice president of operations for Marco’s Pizza.
The Foodservice Equipment Distributors Association recently recognized the accomplishments of some of its members through its annual Gold Awards that “recognizes members and individuals who are advancing the foodservice equipment and supplies industry through exemplary leadership and service,” according to a FEDA release.
Graton Resort & Casino named William Becker its vice president of food and beverage. Becker will oversee all food, beverage and restaurant facilities at the 65-acre resort. The property features five foodservice operations as well as a series of bars.
Chris Rudin was promoted to group vice president of chains for the Star Holdings Group.
Mercer Culinary promoted Chris Parker to national sales manager of foodservice distribution.
Alto-Shaam hired Jennifer Voitek as regional sales manager for the northeast.
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Foodservice Equipment & Supplies (FE&S) is the one media source that connects equipment and supplies manufacturers and service providers with the full distribution channel including news, trends and best practices for foodservice equipment dealers, specifiers, operators, and supply chain partners.
