The Western Association of Food Chains (WAFC) has appointed Alice Chen, CEO of 99 Ranch Market, and Mike Molinar, president and CEO of PAQ Inc., to its board of directors.
Chen has led Asian grocery chain 99 Ranch Market since 2018, after a decade as the company’s CFO. Under her leadership, 99 Ranch Market has evolved into a national platform celebrating Asian culture, culinary innovation and cross-cultural connection.
Chen also serves on the board of Columbia Business School and co-chairs its Global Family Enterprise Program.
Molinar brings more than 40 years of retail industry experience to the WAFC board. He joined PAQ Inc. in August 2020 as CFO after working for a home improvement retailer in Petaluma, California. Demonstrating strong financial and operational leadership, he was promoted to president in 2022 and later named CEO in 2024.
Throughout his career, Molinar has held leadership positions at some of the most recognized names in retail, including Lucky, ABCO, Safeway, Hastings Entertainment, Orchard Supply Hardware and Friedman’s Home Improvement. His expertise in accounting, finance and operations, combined with a collaborative, people-first leadership style, reflects his commitment to advancing excellence and opportunity across the grocery and retail sectors.
“We are thrilled to welcome Alice and Mike to the WAFC Board,” said Kevin Lovell, WAFC president and chairman.
“Both leaders embody the innovation, inclusivity and excellence that drive our industry forward. Their insights and experience will be invaluable as WAFC continues to expand educational opportunities and strengthen the next generation of food industry leaders.”
The WAFC Board of Directors comprises senior executives from across the retail, wholesale and manufacturing sectors, united in the mission to promote learning, leadership and collaboration in the food industry through educational programs.
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