Mike Roach Leadership Award

September 28 – October 1, 2025

Columbus, OH

The Mike Roach Leadership Award

Outstanding leaders are vital to foodservice distribution companies in a rapidly changing foodservice industry. That’s why IFDA and Ben E. Keith Foods established the Mike Roach Leadership Award to identify and recognize one outstanding participant from each annual class of the IFDA Executive Development Program for Foodservice Distributors.

The award honors former Ben E. Keith Foods President J. Michael Roach and his many contributions to the foodservice distribution industry in his leadership at Ben E. Keith Foods, serving on the IFDA Board of Directors for 16 years, and serving for two years as the IFDA Chairman.

“When Mike retired, we knew one of the true statesmen and leaders of this industry would be missed and we wanted a way to honor him for his contributions,” said Mark S. Allen, President and CEO of IFDA. “A leadership award in Mike’s name fits perfectly to reinforce the ideals behind the IFDA Executive Development Program,” said Mike Sweet, president of Ben E. Keith Foods and a participant in the first class from the Darden Program in 2015.”

In each cohort at the IFDA Executive Development Program, peers, as well as program leaders at Darden, select a top student contributor who they believe embodies leadership qualities that Mike Roach personified and encouraged in employees during his tenure at Ben E. Keith Foods. 

A selection committee that includes Mike Roach, executives from Ben E. Keith Foods, and IFDA determines each year’s award recipient based on IFDA Executive Development Program nominations. The recipient receives an all-expenses paid trip to the IFDA Solutions Conference, the premier event for foodservice distribution.

Nominee Qualifications

Exceptional Communicator

Demonstrates superior interpersonal skills, listens intently, and asks insightful questions in an effort to understand all perspectives.

Strong Critical Thinker

Raises vital questions, is open-minded and encourages alternative systems of thought, and is strong at identifying and analyzing problems and recommending practical solutions.

A Passion for People

Develops and sustains cooperative working relationships and encourages continual learning within the team environment.

Visionary Leadership

Exhibits creative foresight and a unique ability to inspire others.

Peer Respect

 Demonstrates a strong work ethic, is likeable and trustworthy, and recognizes and appreciates the ability of others.

Have questions about the program?

Contact Carolyn Muller