Exciting Leadership Change: National Protein and Food Distributors Association Welcomes New President/CEO

Wendy Kavanagh has just taken the helm as the new president and CEO of the National Protein and Food Distributors Association (NPFDA) in Saint Marys, Georgia. This organization plays a vital role in the protein industry.

Wendy’s roots are in agriculture. She was an active member of 4-H and earned her bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Georgia. With over 30 years in nonprofit management, she’s no stranger to leadership. She ran Tessera Association Management and has worked with groups like the International Association for Financial Planning and the Phi Mu Fraternity. Just before joining NPFDA, she was the president of the Georgia Society of Association Executives. Wendy also holds the Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential, obtained in June 2002.

According to Chan Windham, vice president of sales at House of Raeford Farms and NPFDA vice chair, the decision to hire Wendy involved key members of the organization, all of whom agreed she was the ideal candidate.

Wendy is enthusiastic about her new role. “I’m excited to work with the Board, staff, and members to enhance what NPFDA offers,” she noted. Her vision is to support members’ success and ensure their voices are heard in the industry.

This leadership change comes as Cece Corbin, who has led NPFDA since 2018, prepares to partially retire in 2025. Under Cece’s guidance, the organization saw notable growth, including increased membership and event attendance. She revived a popular industry breakfast during the NPFDA Annual Convention, attracting notable speakers. More revenue allowed NPFDA to expand services and benefits. The successful fundraising campaigns also helped the NPFDA Scholarship Foundation provide larger scholarships for students connected to the association.

The National Protein and Food Distributors Association, once known as the National Poultry and Food Distributors Association, was founded in 1967. Based in St. Marys, Georgia, NPFDA consists of around 300 firms involved in protein and food supply, including suppliers, retailers, processors, and marketers. The association’s mission is to create networking opportunities, foster growth, and support lasting business relationships. It serves as a platform for dialogue and idea sharing among food distributors, processors, and related industries.