WFF PRESIDENT & CEO THERESE GEARHART ANNOUNCES PLANNED RETIREMENT

WFF Continues with Strong Momentum, Gearhart to Stay in Role Through Leadership Transition

DALLAS, June 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- WFF, the largest non-profit dedicated to accelerating the advancement of professionals in the foodservice industry, announced the decision by President & CEO, Therese Gearhart, to retire after a distinguished five-year tenure. The organization's Board of Directors has initiated a comprehensive and well-planned succession process. Gearhart will remain at the helm until her successor is appointed and onboarded. WFF remains as mission driven as ever, continuing to deliver strong value through "Grow, Connect, and Inspire" with impactful professional development programming, networking and connection opportunities, and inspiration through access to industry role models. WFF's mission of strengthening the pipeline of future-ready talent by supporting women "all year long and all career long" will continue.

Under Gearhart's leadership, WFF successfully navigated unprecedented industry challenges, including the global pandemic and significant economic shifts. She was instrumental in WFF's rapid expansion of virtual offerings and engagement, and targeted content to ensure professionals building careers in this dynamic sector continued to thrive.

"Leading WFF has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career," Gearhart said. "In today's complex marketplace, with intensified competition for talent, our mission is more critical than ever. We will continue to empower leaders to own their development and to lean in to WFF for that continuous support and community, wherever they are in their careers."

"The WFF Board, Partners, members and staff sincerely appreciate Therese's exceptional leadership and profound dedication to our shared mission," said Kate Jaspon, WFF Board Chair and Chief Financial Officer at Inspire Brands. "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."

ABOUT WFF: WFF is the Foodservice Industry's thought leader helping professionals at all stages of their careers build the personal and professional competencies to accelerate their advancement. WFF leverages research, insights and best practice solutions that enable food companies to address the pressing need for talent, drive better consumer insights and increase business performance by adopting inclusive leadership practices that enable organizations to realize the full potential of a multifaceted workforce. Working since 1989 to provide the tools and resources to help women and men build leadership competencies that enhance career advancement, WFF provides a highly supportive community that offers members curated professional development, connection with peers and mentors, and inspiring insights from industry executives. For more information, visit wff.org.

Media Contact: Grace Dieb, marketing@wff.org

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SOURCE Women’s Foodservice Forum (WFF)