Steven D. Cobb, CFSP, chairman and CEO of Henny Penny Corporation, a leading foodservice equipment designer and manufacturer, was honored with the prestigious William W. Carpenter Award at the recent NAFEM Show in Orlando, Fla. The William W. Carpenter Award is NAFEM’s highest honor.
Cobb, a 25-year industry veteran, was recognized for his many contributions to NAFEM (the North American Association of Foodservice Equipment Manufacturers) and the foodservice industry at-large.
“It is gratifying to see Steve receive this well-deserved award,” says Rob Connelly, CFSP, president of Henny Penny. “Throughout his career, Steve has been a leader, both here at Henny Penny, and within NAFEM.”
As CEO of Henny Penny, Cobb provides strategic direction that has been instrumental in industry-leading innovations such as the Evolution Elite fryer series, which uses 40 percent less oil than conventional open fryers and provides additional savings through energy efficiency. Cobb has been Henny Penny’s chairman and CEO since 2007; he was president and CEO from 1997 – 2007.
“Steve has been an inspiration to all of us in the foodservice industry,” says Thomas R. Campion, CFSP, president of Franke Foodservice Systems and current president of NAFEM. “His commitment to innovation and customer service has led the way for those of us who have been fortunate to work with Steve in NAFEM over the years.”
Cobb has held several leadership positions within NAFEM, serving as president of the association from 2004 – 2005, and chairing The NAFEM Show in 1999.
“I’m honored to have received this award,” Cobb says. “I’ve made so many great friends through my affiliation with NAFEM. I’m grateful for the many opportunities that our industry has provided to our company, our community and, ultimately, to foodservice operators around the world. I look forward to continuing to work with the all the talented people within our Trade Association to help move our industry forward.”
Cobb received the award during a ceremony at The NAFEM Show February 6.
