Keeping the specialty food segment and innovations to the industry at top of mind, Specialty Food Association (SFA) has named Philip M. Kafarakis as its newest President.
"The Special Food Association is regarded as the food industry's innovation incubator, while also preserving and promoting traditional processes and tastes," stated Kafarakis. "I look forward to extending the Association's member value platforms, and working with authentic food creators and purveyors at a time when the American consumer's interest in food has grown to new heights. It's a great honor to join the Association, and to work with and lead these most passionate and entrepreneurial food companies as we expand our mission."
Kafarakis brings more than 30 years of food industry experience to SFA, with knowledge and expertise in innovative brand management, membership development, and strategic planning. In his new role, according to a press release, Kafarakis will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of SFA, and the company’s strategic direction.
"We are very pleased to have Phil join our organization," said Becky Renfro Borbolla, Chair of the Specialty Food Association's Board of Directors. "His experience and insight to the industry will provide us with an excellent blend of strength in strategy, member development and engagement, sales and marketing, and innovative partnership development. Each of those qualities will be essential to our Association as we seek to serve our members and the industry in new and compelling ways."
Kafarakis has served as Chief Innovation and Member Advancement Officer for the National Restaurant Association since 2013, which is based in Washington, DC, and is the world’s largest foodservice trade association. The National Restaurant Association supports more than 500,000 businesses in the industry.
Prior to this appointment, Kafarakis spent ten years with the $4 billion public food company McCormick & Company in Hunt Valley, MD. Kafarakis has also held executive leadership positions with Cargill, Jones Dairy Farm, and Kraft. Kafarakis possesses a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing Management from Northern Arizona University, and an MBA from Georgetown University.
SFA made this appointment to further its dedication to the $120.5 billion specialty food industry, for which the association serves more than 3,200 companies in the food and beverage industry.
Congratulations to Phillip Kafarakis on this new appointment, and Deli Market News will have the latest in the thriving specialty food category.
