Industry Veteran Brings More Than 30 Years of Leadership Experience Across Retail, Foodservice and Trade Association Sectors
ARLINGTON, VA – FMI – The Food Industry Association today announced that David Haaf, a seasoned food industry executive with more than 30 years of experience across retail, foodservice and trade associations, will join the organization as vice president of Fresh Foods.
Building on a strong culinary foundation and a career defined by progressive leadership, Haaf spent over 15 years at K- VA-T Food City, where he held a series of roles, including Corporate Executive Chef, supported by his formal training in 
culinary arts and hospitality, and ultimately vice president of foodservice and prepared foods.
Most recently, Haaf served as president and CEO of the International Dairy Deli Bakery Association, where he led the organization across all functional areas and strengthened engagement among retailers, manufacturers and strategic partners.
FMI Senior Vice President, Industry Relations, and Chief Collaboration Officer, Mark Baum said, “David brings an exceptional blend of operational expertise, industry leadership and deep relationships across the fresh foods community. David’s talents uniquely position him to advance FMI’s work on behalf of our members at a time when fresh food departments are key to food retail differentiation strategies. We are thrilled to welcome him to the team and confident that David will elevate our impact.”
Haaf has demonstrated a strong commitment to industry leadership and collaboration throughout his career. He has served on the steering committee at Topco, actively participated in FMI’s regional operators share group, and contributed as a member of the FMI Fresh Food Leadership Council. A frequent speaker at industry events, including FMI’s FreshForward, Haaf is widely recognized for his thought leadership and engagement with media and key stakeholders across the fresh foods community.
“I am so excited to join FMI and help advance the ‘Future of Fresh Foods’ for our members and the food industry,” shared Haaf. “Having worked alongside FMI and its members throughout my career, I have a deep appreciation for the organization’s leadership, influence, and commitment to serving the industry. Together with FMI’s talented team, members, and partners, I look forward to building on an already strong foundation, fostering innovation, and creating new opportunities that strengthen fresh foods and deliver value across the supply chain.”
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