IFDA announces retirement of Vice President Theresa Kessler after 36 years of dedicated service

Trey Lawrence Named as Successor, Bringing Extensive Association Finance Experience

McLEAN, Va. – July 21, 2025 – The International Foodservice Distributors Association (IFDA) today announced the retirement of Theresa Kessler, Vice President of Finance and Administration, following 36 years of dedicated service. Kessler, who joined IFDA in July 1989, has overseen the association’s financial operations, human resources, and administrative functions throughout her distinguished tenure.

“Theresa has been the financial backbone of IFDA for more than three decades,” said Mark S. Allen, President and CEO of IFDA. “Her dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence have been invaluable to our organization’s growth and success. While we will deeply miss her leadership and institutional knowledge, we celebrate her remarkable contributions and wish her the very best in her well-deserved retirement.”

Kessler began her IFDA career as Manager of Accounting in 1989, when the organization was part of Food Distributors International. Her deep understanding of association operations and financial management helped guide IFDA through significant organizational changes and growth over the decades.

Throughout her tenure, Kessler maintained IFDA’s financial integrity while supporting the association’s mission to serve the foodservice distribution industry. Her expertise helped IFDA navigate economic challenges, implement new financial systems, and ensure fiscal responsibility across all organizational functions.

IFDA has named Trey Lawrence as Kessler’s successor, effective July 2025. Lawrence brings more than 12 years of association finance experience from the National Restaurant Association, where he most recently served as Vice President of Finance from November 2021 to June 2025.

Lawrence advanced through progressive leadership roles at the National Restaurant Association, including Senior Manager and Director of Financial Planning and Analysis before his promotion to Vice President.

“It has been an incredible privilege to serve IFDA and witness the evolution of our industry over the past 36 years,” said Kessler. “I am confident that Trey will continue to uphold the high standards of financial stewardship that our members and stakeholders expect.”

Kessler’s retirement marks the end of an era for IFDA, with a transition process designed to ensure continuity and maintain the high level of financial management that has characterized her tenure.

About The International Foodservice Distributors Association

The International Foodservice Distributors Association (IFDA) is the premier trade organization representing the $400 billion foodservice distribution industry. This industry ensures a safe and efficient supply of food and products to more than one million restaurants and foodservice outlets in the U.S. daily. Learn more at ifdaonline.org.