USA — The search for a successor to retiring American bakers Association’s CEO Robb Mackie is finally over with the appointment of Eric Dell, JD, MBA as the organization’s new president and CEO effective January 1, 2023.
Mackie had announced in June that he will be retiring at the end of this year triggering a vacancy that has now been filled by a veteran executive currently serving as the Executive Vice President at National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA).
“Eric is an energetic, dynamic and politically savvy leader who exudes passion for his work and his family,” said Harrington, founder and CEO of Crown Bakeries. “He is the ideal successor to carry on the strong reputation and foundation built by Robb MacKie and the ABA team.”
During his 10-year tenure at NAMA, Dell has built a best-in-class advocacy program, forged new industry partnerships, revitalized the industry tradeshow and invigorated high-performing teams.
He brings to his new role strong association experience, as well as great connections in the nation’s capital having served at Capital Hill as chief of staff and counsel to Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC) and previously as a practicing attorney and law clerk to South Carolina Circuit Judge Marc Westbrook.
Bill Quigg, ABA’s first vice chair and president and CEO of Richmond Baking. “I am confident this new leadership will prove to be an exceptional strategic executive taking ABA successfully into the future.”
Dell hails from South Carolina native and has a degree in political science and a Juris Doctorate from the University of South Carolina. He earned his Master of Business Administration from the Johns Hopkins University Carey School of Business.
“Eric’s depth of experience and leadership skills are second to none,” said Brad Alexander, COO of Flowers Foods and ABA’s immediate past chair.
“He has a clear and passionate vision that will guide ABA’s efforts as they address the baking industry’s future challenges and provide valuable resources to meet our members’ changing business needs.”
Outgoing CEO MacKie said noted that ABA’s professional team and its leadership will blaze a bright path for the baking industry’s future with him at the helm.
“I’m delighted to join this fantastic industry as president and CEO of its leading trade association,” Dell said. “Together, we will work to show America and the world what many already know: Baking is cool.”
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