CRFA head leaving post next year

Oct. 27, 2008, Toronto – The Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association announced today that president Douglas Needham has decided to leave the association at the end of June 2009.

“Doug has made an enormous contribution to CRFA and the foodservice industry over the past 26 years, and the doard of directors is pleased that he will remain at the helm over the next several months to ensure a smooth transition takes place,” says CRFA chairman of the board Michael Aronovici. "The board has formed a succession committee to oversee the search for a new president.”

Needham joined CRFA in 1982 and led the association through more than two decades of growth and expansion aimed at the betterment of Canada’s food service industry. His accomplishments span government lobbying, industry trade shows and money-saving services for food service operators. Here is a snapshot of CRFA’s evolution during Needham’s tenure:
 
In 1982:
·         1,644 members
·         one trade show
·         no one dedicated to government affairs
·         leased offices in Toronto

In 2008:
·         more than 33,000 members
·         four annual trade shows
·         an 1,800-member buying group
·         eight full-time industry lobbyists
·         offices in Vancouver, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Toronto, Montreal and Halifax, including association-owned buildings in Toronto and Edmonton
 
“Food service is a tremendous industry because of the people involved,” says Needham. “I’ve been privileged to work with an exceptional team of CRFA staff and directors, as well as thousands of food service operators across Canada who personify the entrepreneurial spirit of this great industry.
 
“My departure from CRFA is a bittersweet decision. I’m excited about trying some new endeavours, but I’ll miss working for such a magnificent organization.”