MADISON, WI
The International Dairy-Deli-Bakery Association™ (IDDBA) has announced that HEB executive Michael J. Eardley will be taking over as its new President and CEO starting August 25th. The IDDBA has been searching for a new Chief Executive ever since the passing of Carol Christison, a woman who had led the Association for the previous 3 decades. The Association is confident however that they have at last found the right man in Michael.
Ed Meyer, Search Committee Member and Vice President of Meat & Seafood at Schnuck Markets, said that, "I've known Michael Eardley for a number of years and he has the background and qualifications to take the IDDBA to even greater heights. He's highly respected in the industry, passionate about the Association, and has the ability and experience to lead the strategic planning process."
Fellow Search Committee Member and Senior Director of Deli, Bakery, and Specialty Cheese at Giant Eagle seconded these sentiments, saying “ We concluded that Mike was the most qualified candidate with outstanding leadership, communication, strategic planning, and team-building skills. Mike will bring a lot of energy and enthusiasm to the position, as well as a disciplined and organized problem-solving approach."
For his part Eardley commented in a press release that, "I'm looking forward to working with the talented and hard-working IDDBA staff and Board and welcome the opportunity to develop and meet new short- and long-term goals that keep the Association relevant and a vital resource for the industry. I've been active in the Association for a number of years; it's a great Association in a great industry and I anticipate getting up to speed quickly."
According to a press release, Eardley will bring 13 years of executive experience at HEB with him to the IDDBA. He has served as Chairman of the Board for the IDDBA and was previously honored as a Chairman's Award winner for his service to the Association and the industry as a whole.
Congratulations on the new position Michael!
