IFMA’s Licata to Step Down

Michael J Licata announced Tuesday that he will step down as president and CEO of the Chicago-based International Foodservice Manufacturers Association, an organization he has headed for nearly 31 years.

By Staff -- Restaurants & Institutions, 2/12/2008

Michael J Licata announced Tuesday that he will step down as president and CEO of the Chicago-based International Foodservice Manufacturers Association, an organization he has headed for nearly 31 years.

Today, Licata told judges for IFMA’s Gold and Silver Plate Awards that he has notified the association’s board of his decision. A search for his replacement is underway, a process that Licata hopes will identify a candidate before the end of 2008. Licata intends to work with the new president for one year as part of the succession plan. Tom Samson, IFMA first vice chairman and president of Kraft North America’s foodservice division, noted the major role Licata has played in developing the organization and said he is looking forward to working with Licata on a leadership transition.

Licata joined IFMA in 1977, having served in the administration of President Gerald Ford as executive secretary to the Department of Health, Education and Welfare and as a trade specialist in the Department of Commerce. During his tenure at IFMA, Licata has built the association’s annual Chain Operators Exchange (COEX) into a major industry gathering for both foodservice operators and suppliers.

He also has maintained the stature of the Gold and Silver Plate Society, which for 54 years has annually recognized industry excellence through its awards program. Jon Luther, chairman and CEO of Canton, Mass.-based Dunkin’ Brands was the 2007 recipient of IFMA’s Gold Plate Award.