Rebecca Calvin, EVP and chief marketing officer for Stater Bros. Markets and current chair of the Western Association of Food Chains, has been chosen as 2027 Executive in Residence for the University of Southern California Marshall School of Business’ Food Industry Executive Program (FIEP).
The executive in residence role is given to “leaders whose careers exemplify excellence, innovation, mentorship and an unwavering commitment to developing future generations of industry leaders,” according to WAFC.
Serving as WAFC board chair for 2026-27, “Calvin has been a passionate advocate for education and leadership development,” the Yorba Linda, California-based organization said. “Throughout her career, she has championed mentorship, lifelong learning and meaningful opportunities that strengthen both the grocery industry and the people who power it.”
As Executive in Residence for FIEP’s 2027 class, Calvin will share her leadership experience with senior executives participating in the program, which is designed to develop the next generation of food industry leaders.
A leader with vision, integrity, passion
“The WAFC Board of Directors is incredibly proud to see Rebecca recognized by USC for her extraordinary contributions to our industry,” said Patrick Posey, COO of WAFC. “Rebecca leads with vision, integrity and a genuine passion for developing people. This honor reflects the tremendous impact she has made throughout her career, and we are grateful for her leadership within the WAFC family.”
WAFC said Calvin’s recognition is “especially meaningful” for the organization, whose mission is “Transforming Lives Through Learning.” It added that it has partnered with the USC Marshall Food Industry Management (FIM) Program to provide educational opportunities for current and future industry leaders for more than 60 years.
On her LinkedIn page, Calvin commented on the Executive in Residence appointment: “Very grateful for this opportunity to share my leadership philosophy and support for the industry’s future leaders!”
San Bernardino, California-based Stater Bros. Markets operates about 170 stores in Southern California. Calvin joined the grocer in 2022 as SVP and chief marketing officer and was named to her current role as EVP and CMO last October.