Tuesday, May 19, 2026
The International Dairy Deli Bakery Association (IDDBA), the premier trade association for the dairy, deli, bakery, and retail foodservice sectors, has officially launched a search for its next President & CEO. This leadership transition comes at a pivotal time as IDDBA continues to shape innovation and commerce across the fresh-food landscape.
IDDBA’s Board of Directors has retained executive search firm Herd Freed Hartz to guide the selection of the next leader. The incoming President & CEO will be responsible for providing strategic and operational leadership for the nonprofit, which connects retailers, manufacturers, distributors, and suppliers.
“The next President & CEO will build on a strong foundation to elevate IDDBA's influence, expand member value, and position the organization for its next phase of growth,” said the Search Committee.
Reporting to a 27-member Board of Directors, the President & CEO will oversee an organization with a staff of 21 based in Madison, Wisconsin. Key responsibilities include leading the continued evolution of IDDBA’s flagship annual tradeshow—a best-in-class industry event—and strengthening the organization’s visibility and industry impact.
The ideal candidate will possess 10–15+ years of senior leadership experience within an association or relevant industry sector. Success in the first 24 months will be defined by an aligned strategic direction, increased member engagement, and the activation of pathways for sustainable growth.
“IDDBA stands as the authority in the dairy, deli, and bakery sectors,” the Search Committee noted. “We are looking for a commercially minded, servant leader with the heart to lead change with humility and the expertise to leverage emerging technologies and data to benefit our members.”
All confidential inquiries or expressions of interest should be directed to Fred Pabst, Food/AG Search Practice Leader of Herd Freed Hartz Executive Search at fred@herdfreedhartz.com.
Download IDDBA President CEO Position Specification