2023 Leadership Award Winners
The Specialty Food Association presents its 2023 Leadership Award winners, individuals who are making a difference in the food industry and the world. Chosen by the SFA’s Recognition Industry Working Group from among dozens of submissions, these winners demonstrate the caring and consciousness of the specialty food industry through quality food and inspirational leadership. They’re recognized in the categories of Vision, Sustainability, Citizenship, Outstanding Buyer, and Emerging Leader.
VISION
For pioneering new approaches, innovative products, and business models that have set in motion positive change and progress.
Winner for Vision: David Kemp, Village Gourmet/Les Trois Petits Cochons
When 30-year-old David Kemp became a partner in Les Trois Petits Cochons in 2015, he joined a historic protein company with an experienced staff and excellent product. He was embarking on a growth journey, for himself and the company.
“The core products were strong and Les Trois had a great relationship with its retail and foodservice partners,” says Kemp. “I thought there was opportunity to expand the line.” And he has accomplished that and more, increasing sales by 25 percent per year since 2017.
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SUSTAINABILITY
For environmental stewardship through sustainable production, ingredient use, packaging, waste reduction, animal welfare, eco- or climate-friendly practices.
Winner for Sustainability: Mike Noonan, Bitchin’ Sauce
Every company in the food business talks sustainability. It’s a feel-good concept, often addressed in generalities and a decades-long time frame.
For Mike Noonan, vice president of operations for Bitchin’ Sauce, the time for sustainability is “now.”
“Food waste is a huge problem,” says Noonan, 36. “And much of that waste occurs on the consumer level, with people throwing away products that are out-of-date. That can be addressed through consumer education but can also be controlled through the manufacturing process.”
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CITIZENSHIP
For improving the lives of people and communities through ethical business practices or philanthropic work (e.g., hunger relief, literacy, childhood nutrition)
Winner for Citizenship: Luke Schneider, Fire Department Coffee
Firefighters and first responders keep alert with a never-ending pot of coffee. Thanks to Luke Schneider and his partners at Fire Department Coffee, they can now brew good coffee and support their peers in need.
“Our coffee is roasted by firefighters and first responders,” says Schneider, 37, who founded Fire Department Coffee with firefighter/paramedic Jason Patton. “And through the Fire Department Coffee Foundation, we give back to help injured firefighters and first responders who have physical and mental challenges.”
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OUTSTANDING BUYER
For championing specialty foods through excellence in product sourcing, merchandising, marketing, or mentoring of food companies.
Winner for Outstanding Buyer: Dwight Richmond, Town & Country Markets
Dwight Richmond is the buyer that manufacturers dream about. He is an active partner that builds brands instead of beating up on price.
“I like to connect with the small producers and learn their aspirations,” says Richmond, 50, director of center store for Town & Country Markets, operator of six high-volume stores in Washington state. “We are all on a food journey—the manufacturers, the retailers, and the consumer. My goal is to help people navigate that journey.”
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EMERGING LEADER
Recognition for an individual in business less than five years demonstrating outstanding leadership in any of the award categories.
Winner for Emerging Leader: Dani Zuchovicki, The Hatchery
With what sounds like a lifetime of culinary and educational experience, Dani Zuchovicki helps hundreds of entrepreneurs pursue their food dreams. And this emerging leader is just 30 years old.
“Gale Gand once told me to say ‘yes’ to everything,” says Zuchovicki, membership and community manager at The Hatchery, Chicago. “You will learn and grow.”
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Winner for Emerging Leader: David Schmunk, African Dream Foods
African foods and flavors are being discovered throughout the U.S. But not fast enough for David Schmunk, founder and managing director of African Dream Foods, which is bringing the flavors of Africa to U.S. consumers while supporting wildlife preservation on the African continent.
“African food is underrepresented,” says Schmunk, 39. “When people think of Africa, they see beads, figurines, maybe fabrics. Yet there is so much more to that diverse continent.”
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