The Western Association of Food Chains elected Mark Van Buskirk of The Save Mart Companies to the WAFC board of directors during a Nov. 4 meeting in San Diego, California.
“We are excited to welcome Mark, an influential industry leader, to the WAFC board of directors,” said Paul Gianetto, WAFC president and chairman and SVP of sales and merchandising at Raley’s.
“Mark has consistently displayed his passion for education throughout his career. We look forward to his contributions to our mission of advancing education and leadership in the food industry.”
Van Buskirk, who recently joined The Save Mart Companies, will bring more than 35 years of experience in the retail industry to his role on the WAFC’s board of directors. He has held roles of increasing responsibility in food merchandising, marketing, operations and private brands.
Van Buskirk was previously VP of marketing and merchandising at Jacksons Food Stores and held executive leadership roles at Albertsons Companies, SuperValu, Kroger and Fred Meyer.
“I look forward to working with Mark and am excited to have him on our board of directors,” said COO Patrick Posey.
“He will bring a unique business outlook and has demonstrated great servant leadership throughout his career. Mark’s participation and ideas will be instrumental as we strategically move forward with WAFC.”
About the WAFC
Established in 1921, the WAFC is focused on providing educational opportunities for food industry associates. The Food Industry Management Program at the University of Southern California Marshall School of Business has been available to qualified industry participants for 64 years.
In 2000, the WAFC expanded its scope by working with community colleges throughout the western United States to establish the Retail Management Certificate Program. The curriculum is available at 160 college/satellite locations and online nationally.
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