CHICAGO The International Foodservice Manufacturers Association has appointed Lawrence Oberkfell to the newly created post of chief operating officer. He eventually will succeed Michael J Licata, IFMA's president and chief executive, who plans to retire sometime in 2009.
In the meantime, Oberkfell will oversee the trade group's day-to-day operations and implement policies and objectives established by Licata and the board.
"The plan is for me to be COO until Michael retires, which could be in about a year," Oberkfell said. "That will provide a transition period for the two of us."
He said that Licata also expects to remain involved with IFMA beyond his retirement as chief executive by participating in various committees and serving on the board. "Obviously, we're anxious to keep him involved because of his longevity," he said.
Oberkfell currently is an operating partner of GESD Capital Partners, a San Francisco-based private equity firm that invests chiefly in consumer, restaurant, entertainment and business services industries. He also is executive chairman of Milton's Holding Co., a fresh bread and cracker company in San Diego.
Oberkfell has held a number of top posts at companies in the foodservice industry, including Schwan Food Co., Surebeam Corp., Anchor Food Products, and Orval Kent Food Co. He served as president and chief executive for the latter three companies.
Oberkfell also was an active member of the IFMA board and its executive committee. He served as chairman of IFMA's board in 2002.
Licata, who said he would work with Oberkfell throughout 2009, noted, "We are confident that Larry will bring the leadership, energy and enthusiasm to move IFMA forward."
Licata was named to IFMA's top post in 1977. Before that he had served as the executive secretary to the U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare during President Gerald Ford's administration and as an international trade specialist for the Department of Commerce.
During his tenure at IFMA, Licata helped to transform it from a nearly bankrupt organization into one of the foodservice industry's most influential trade groups with more than 400 members and a $10 million budget.