On September 10, 2025, Seattle’s Reffett Associates welcomed Sam Mayberry as the new leader for its food and beverage executive search team. Marshall Reffett, managing director, emphasized that Sam’s market insights and industry connections make him an excellent choice for helping clients find top executives who can drive innovation and growth.
With years of experience at major companies like Supervalu, Albertson’s, and Amazon, Sam understands every part of the product lifecycle—from development to sourcing. He also recently took time off to assist a confidential client but now returns to help businesses in the food and beverage sector secure strong leaders.
Reffett Associates is a well-established firm specializing in executive searches across various industries, including retail and consumer goods. They have a deep understanding of the challenges faced by executives today. Their offices are located in key areas like Seattle, Washington, D.C., New York, and Dallas.
Bill Reffett, the firm’s founder, has a notable track record of placing key leaders in major companies. Before starting Reffett Associates, he was a Vice President and Partner at Korn/Ferry International, where he built their national supermarket practice.
Recently, Reffett Associates successfully placed Ken Ossinger as the Vice President of Finance at Fremont Brewing. Ken’s experience in finance, especially with small to medium-sized businesses, equips him to support Fremont Brewing’s growth in the craft beer scene. He runs an accounting and consulting practice that helps companies navigate M&A and fundraising processes.
In his new role, Ken will oversee all financial operations, ensuring compliance, budgeting, and reporting. His work is crucial for helping Fremont Brewery, known for its commitment to sustainability and quality, achieve its financial goals and enhance its market position. Fremont Brewery has gained prominence in the Pacific Northwest craft beer scene, especially after being acquired by Seattle Hospitality Group in 2024.
The need for skilled leaders in the food and beverage industry continues to grow. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for food service managers is expected to rise by 9% over the next decade. This highlights the importance of firms like Reffett Associates, which play a vital role in connecting businesses with the right talent.
Social media showcases the excitement around these leadership changes. Many industry professionals are discussing the potential impact of new executives on company growth and innovation. As industry demands evolve, having the right people in place can make all the difference in a business’s success.
For more insights on executive recruitment trends, check out this [report from the Harvard Business Review](https://hbr.org/2021/09/the-future-of-executive-recruitment).
