Tom Bené is stepping down as president and CEO of the National Restaurant Association and the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation. A 30-year veteran of the food and beverage industry, Bené is returning to the beverage distribution sector, according to the association in a statement.
Bené joined the Association and Foundation during the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic and has worked with restaurant owners, manufacturers, and distributors to bolster the industry’s recovery efforts.
"We appreciate Tom’s leadership and commitment to the industry during this difficult time," said Brian Casey, National Restaurant Association Board Chair and owner of the Oak Hill Tavern and the Company Picnic Company, in a statement. "Tom’s unique industry experience was invaluable in helping the Association and Foundation navigate a once-in-a-lifetime global pandemic."
Marvin Irby, the association's CFO and chief people officer, will serve as interim CEO while a task force is assembled to oversee the search for a new president and CEO.
"I am incredibly proud of the work this team has done and all that we have accomplished together during this incredible time," said Bené, in a statement. "Whether it's the significant impact we've made to support the industry through our advocacy efforts; the new governance model that we put in place to drive deeper engagement and more effectiveness; or the restructuring of the organization to meet the changing needs of the industry, our state associations, and our members, it has been a truly collaborative effort. I know the Association and Foundation – and these teams – are well-positioned for continued success."
Related: Restaurants Hopeful Workers Will Soon Return; NRA Advocates Congress to Replenish Relief Fund.