The Women’s Foodservice Forum (WFF) announced that Laurie Burns, Chair of the Board of Directors, will lead the strategic direction and guide the overall operations of the organization in light of the recent passing of president & CEO, Fritzi Woods, on September 18.
Burns, a long-time member of the WFF, joined the Board of Directors in 2008 and was named Chair in April of this year. With more than 20 years of industry experience, Burns is the senior vice president, SRG Strategic Platform & Development at Darden Restaurants, and leads all development initiatives across Darden’s Specialty Restaurant Group brands, which include Bahama Breeze, Seasons 52, The Capital Grille, Eddie V’s Prime Seafood, and Yard House. She previously was president of Bahama Breeze.
The WFF is initiating a formal search for the new president and CEO.
“We are fortunate to have Laurie’s leadership during this difficult time. I know that with her guidance, along with having the world’s best partners, members, and employees, the WFF will continue to focus on advancing women in the foodservice industry,” says Anna Mason, general manager and vice president of operations for the WFF.
