The International Dairy Deli Bakery Association has named Paul Ziemnisky as president and CEO. He will join the association Sept. 8 after five years as group EVP of wellness, innovation and business development at Dairy Management Inc.
Ziemnisky becomes IDDBA’s fourth president and CEO, selected following a nationwide search. He succeeds Bill Haaf, who departed the association earlier this year and was named FMI’s VP of fresh foods in June.
“The IDDBA Board of Directors is thrilled to welcome Paul Ziemnisky,” said Jody Barrick, founder and managing partner of Perimeter Partners and chair of the IDDBA board. “Paul is a proven leader with a rare blend of CPG brand-building expertise and deep industry roots. His visionary approach to innovation and growth makes him the ideal choice to guide IDDBA and support our members in an evolving marketplace.”
Brand marketing veteran
Ziemnisky brings more than 30 years of experience as a senior business executive and brand marketing leader. While at Kraft Foods Inc., he led innovation for brands including Kraft Natural Cheese, Velveeta, Tombstone and DiGiorno, and he brings extensive experience in retail and foodservice.
He steps into the role following a record-breaking annual show in Orlando, Florida, and sustained membership growth across the dairy, deli, bakery and retail foodservice industries, the Madison, Wisconsin-based organization said.
“I am honored and energized to lead IDDBA at such a transformative time for the fresh food community,” Ziemnisky said. “IDDBA is a powerhouse, and I’ve long admired its ability to connect, educate, and inspire the industry. I look forward to working closely with our board, our talented team, and our more than 1,500 member companies to build on this momentum, drive innovation, and deliver exceptional value across the dairy, deli, bakery, and foodservice sectors.”
In his new role, Ziemnisky will guide the strategic direction of the association, enhance member value and expand IDDBA’s reach across the fresh-food landscape. He also will oversee planning for the association’s flagship event, IDDBA 2027, taking place in Atlanta.