Leadership Overview
National Restaurant Association has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, advocacy, marketing, operations, finance, and organizational leadership.
Dedicated to advancing the foodservice sector, National Restaurant Association provides essential research, policy advocacy, and professional development to ensure the long-term sustainability and growth of restaurant businesses across the United States.
Dedicated to advancing the foodservice sector, National Restaurant Association provides essential research, policy advocacy, and professional development to ensure the long-term sustainability and growth of restaurant businesses across the United States.
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. Overseeing national advocacy efforts, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that regulatory frameworks support restaurant operators and suppliers in navigating complex compliance requirements. This leadership role involves constant engagement with government bodies to shape policies regarding labor standards and food safety. By prioritizing industry-wide best practices, Michelle Korsmo drives the organization toward greater operational sustainability. The President & Chief Executive Officer also manages the research initiatives that inform business decisions for members across the country. Through this comprehensive approach, the association maintains a recognized voice for restaurant interests. Ultimately, Korsmo secures the long-term viability of the sector by fostering collaboration between diverse stakeholders and promoting innovation within the broader business community.
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 high-level guidance to the board regarding long-term organizational legacy. Supporting the current leadership team, the President & Chief Executive Officer, Emerita & Lifetime Honorary Board Member maintains deep institutional knowledge to assist with complex policy challenges. This role involves advising on the strategic direction of advocacy platforms that protect the interests of restaurant operators. By leveraging decades of industry experience, Sweeney ensures that the association remains a central hub for stakeholders. The President & Chief Executive Officer, Emerita & Lifetime Honorary Board Member also facilitates connections between veteran industry leaders and emerging professionals. Through this advisory capacity, Dawn Sweeney strengthens the foundation of the organization. Ultimately, Sweeney contributes to the stability and continued influence of the association within the national foodservice landscape.
Keri Stockland - Chief Financial Officer
Keri Stockland, the Chief Financial Officer at National Restaurant Association, directs the financial strategy and fiscal health of the organization. Overseeing budget management and long-term financial planning, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that the association possesses the resources to fund critical advocacy platforms and research initiatives. This leadership role involves monitoring economic trends that impact the foodservice industry to inform the organization's investment decisions. By maintaining fiscal transparency, Stockland drives the stability required to support member success and workforce development programs. The Chief Financial Officer also collaborates with the executive team to align financial goals with the broader mission of the association. Through precise financial oversight, Keri Stockland enables the organization to address shared challenges and opportunities within the sector. Ultimately, Stockland secures the financial future of the association while promoting sustainable growth for the entire restaurant community.
Judith Mulcahy - Chief Operating Officer
Judith Mulcahy, the Chief Operating Officer at National Restaurant Association, manages the internal infrastructure and daily business processes that support the organization's mission. Overseeing administrative efficiency and resource allocation, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that the association functions as a reliable hub for industry stakeholders. This leadership role involves streamlining the delivery of educational programming and research services to members. By optimizing internal workflows, Mulcahy drives the operational excellence required to address shared challenges within the foodservice sector. The Chief Operating Officer also coordinates with the board to implement strategic initiatives that enhance member value. Through rigorous management of organizational assets, Judith Mulcahy supports the association's ability to navigate complex compliance requirements and industry-wide best practices. Ultimately, Mulcahy maintains the operational foundation necessary for the association to advocate effectively for restaurant interests on a national scale.
Carmen Vacalebre - President
Carmen Vacalebre, the President at National Restaurant Association, leads specific business units focused on expanding the association's reach within the foodservice landscape. Overseeing regional engagement and partnership development, the President ensures that the organization effectively connects with restaurant operators and allied businesses. This leadership role involves facilitating networking opportunities that allow professionals to share best practices and address emerging challenges. By driving initiatives that foster collaboration, Vacalebre strengthens the association's role as a central hub for industry stakeholders. The President also works closely with the executive team to execute strategic programs that support member success. Through active management of these key business functions, Carmen Vacalebre enhances the association's influence across the broader business community. Ultimately, Vacalebre contributes to the organization's mission by building strong, sustainable relationships that benefit the entire restaurant industry.
Leslie Nagao - Chief Marketing Officer
Leslie Nagao, the Chief Marketing Officer at National Restaurant Association, architects the brand strategy and communication initiatives that amplify the organization's influence. Overseeing digital engagement and member outreach, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures that the association effectively promotes its research, educational programming, and advocacy resources to the foodservice community. This leadership role involves crafting messaging that highlights the value of membership for restaurant operators and suppliers. By optimizing communication channels, Nagao drives awareness of critical industry trends and operational innovations. The Chief Marketing Officer also collaborates with other C-suite leaders to align marketing campaigns with the broader mission of supporting member success. Through targeted outreach, Leslie Nagao expands the reach of the association across the national business landscape. Ultimately, Nagao strengthens the connection between the organization and the diverse professionals within the restaurant industry.
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Frequently Asked Questions Regarding National Restaurant Association Top Executives and Leadership Team
