Leadership Overview
National Restaurant Association has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, board governance, marketing, financial oversight, operational management, and organizational leadership.
Dedicated to advancing the foodservice sector, National Restaurant Association empowers restaurant operators and suppliers through robust advocacy, comprehensive industry research, and professional development initiatives that shape the future of the hospitality landscape.
Dedicated to advancing the foodservice sector, National Restaurant Association empowers restaurant operators and suppliers through robust advocacy, comprehensive industry research, and professional development initiatives that shape the future of the hospitality landscape.
Leadership Roles at National Restaurant Association
Michelle Korsmo - President & Chief Executive Officer
Michelle Korsmo, the President & Chief Executive Officer at National Restaurant Association, directs the overarching strategic vision for the entire foodservice industry. By engaging with government bodies and regulatory agencies, Korsmo architects policy frameworks that support workforce development and business sustainability across the United States. This leadership role involves managing complex relationships with industry stakeholders to address labor standards and food safety compliance. Through the implementation of high-level advocacy programs, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures the organization remains a powerful voice for restaurant interests. Michelle Korsmo drives growth by aligning internal resources with the evolving needs of restaurant operators and suppliers. By prioritizing member success, the President & Chief Executive Officer secures the long-term viability of the broader hospitality community. This executive oversight guarantees that the association maintains a proactive stance on critical legislative issues while fostering innovation within the national restaurant landscape.
Dawn Sweeney - President & Chief Executive Officer, Emerita & Lifetime Honorary Board Member
Dawn Sweeney, the President & Chief Executive Officer, Emerita & Lifetime Honorary Board Member at National Restaurant Association, provides historical continuity and strategic counsel to the governing body. By leveraging decades of industry expertise, Sweeney advises on long-term organizational goals and maintains vital connections with legacy partners. This role involves supporting the current leadership team during major transitions and ensuring the preservation of the association's core mission. As a lifetime honorary member, the President & Chief Executive Officer, Emerita & Lifetime Honorary Board Member influences high-level governance decisions that impact the national foodservice sector. Dawn Sweeney fosters stability by bridging past successes with future objectives. Through consistent engagement with the board, the President & Chief Executive Officer, Emerita & Lifetime Honorary Board Member reinforces the organization's commitment to advocacy and member support. This unique position allows for the seamless integration of institutional knowledge into modern operational strategies, ultimately strengthening the association's influence within the competitive business environment.
Keri Stockland - Chief Financial Officer
Keri Stockland, the Chief Financial Officer at National Restaurant Association, manages the fiscal health and resource allocation for the entire organization. By overseeing budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance, Stockland ensures the association maintains the capital necessary to fund critical advocacy and research initiatives. This leadership role involves collaborating with the board to optimize financial performance and support long-term sustainability. As the Chief Financial Officer, Stockland monitors economic indicators that affect the foodservice industry, providing data-driven insights that inform strategic business decisions. Keri Stockland drives operational efficiency by streamlining financial processes and managing investments that support member services. Through rigorous fiscal oversight, the Chief Financial Officer protects the organization's assets while enabling the expansion of educational programming. This financial stewardship allows the association to remain a stable and effective advocate for restaurant interests, ensuring that resources are consistently directed toward the most impactful industry programs and services.
Judith Mulcahy - Chief Operating Officer
Judith Mulcahy, the Chief Operating Officer at National Restaurant Association, directs the internal business processes and organizational infrastructure required to support member services. By optimizing operational workflows, Mulcahy ensures that the association delivers high-quality research, educational content, and networking opportunities to restaurant professionals. This leadership role involves managing cross-functional teams to execute the organization's strategic goals and maintain service excellence. As the Chief Operating Officer, Mulcahy oversees the implementation of technology and administrative systems that facilitate member engagement. Judith Mulcahy drives productivity by aligning daily operations with the association's mission to address shared industry challenges. Through the coordination of internal departments, the Chief Operating Officer guarantees that advocacy platforms and professional development programs function effectively. This operational focus enables the association to respond rapidly to emerging market trends, providing members with the consistent support needed to navigate complex regulatory environments and achieve business success.
Carmen Vacalebre - President
Carmen Vacalebre, the President at National Restaurant Association, manages specific organizational divisions focused on expanding industry partnerships and member outreach. By cultivating relationships with suppliers and allied businesses, Vacalebre strengthens the association's network and enhances the value proposition for all members. This leadership role involves leading initiatives that connect restaurant operators with essential industry resources and collaborative opportunities. As the President, Vacalebre coordinates with other executives to ensure that divisional activities support the overarching advocacy and research goals of the organization. Carmen Vacalebre drives engagement by identifying new avenues for professional development and networking within the foodservice landscape. Through the management of key partnerships, the President facilitates the exchange of best practices and operational innovations. This focus on external collaboration ensures that the association remains a vital hub for industry stakeholders, ultimately supporting the growth and resilience of the restaurant community across the country.
Leslie Nagao - Chief Marketing Officer
Leslie Nagao, the Chief Marketing Officer at National Restaurant Association, directs all brand communication and member engagement strategies across North American markets. By developing targeted campaigns, Nagao promotes the association's research, educational programming, and advocacy efforts to a diverse audience of restaurant professionals. This leadership role involves managing digital platforms and outreach initiatives that highlight the value of membership. As the Chief Marketing Officer, Nagao ensures that the organization's messaging aligns with current market trends and operational innovations. Leslie Nagao drives member acquisition and retention by articulating the benefits of the association's resources and professional development opportunities. Through strategic brand positioning, the Chief Marketing Officer enhances the visibility of the organization as a central hub for industry stakeholders. This work supports the broader mission by connecting restaurant operators with the tools necessary for success, thereby increasing the overall impact of the association within the foodservice sector.
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Frequently Asked Questions Regarding National Restaurant Association Top Executives and Leadership Team
