Bi-Lo’s Dewayne Rabon Becomes GMDC Board Chairman

Among the changes the Global Market Development Center (GMDC) has made to its board of directors is the appointment of Dewayne Rabon, ‎VP general merchandise/HBC sales at Jacksonville, Fla.-based Bi-Lo Holdings LLC, as chairman. The board features retailers, wholesalers, suppliers and service companies representing the general merchandise and health, beauty and wellness industries.

"2015 is looking to be an exciting year for GMDC, its members and associates as we work to develop new opportunities and build upon our existing business model," said Patrick Spear, president of the Colorado Springs-based trade association. "More than ever, GMDC retailers are looking to the association and its leadership for product discovery opportunities and innovation at our conferences. By leveraging opportunities for first-mover advantages that build higher margins, we are activating business growth in this highly competitive marketplace."

Along with Rabon, the board's officers are Bill Anderson, immediate past chairman, H-E-B; Stephen Davis, vice chairman, Weis Markets Inc.; Timothy Buskey, secretary/treasurer, AmerisourceBergen; and Dave McConnell, GMDC CEO.

Newly appointed to the board are Tom Duffy, co-chair education leadership council, Nielsen; Dave Baer, co-chair GM advisory board, Wakefern Food Corp.; Dave Sutton, GM advisory board liaison, Valu Merchandisers Co.; Rick Cicero, member advisory board liaison, C&S Wholesale Grocers Inc.; Cheri Taylor, HBW advisory board liaison, Kinney Drug; and Dan Sullivan, ex-officio, TBM Consulting.

Retiring from the board are Pat Kiernan, Day/Kiernan & Associates; Mike Botterman, 99 Cents Only Stores; Dan Funk, Associated Wholesale Grocers; and Kathy Williams, formerly of Raley's.

A testimonial video from board members can be viewed online.