Iowa Grocers Names Todd Keech Chairman

The Iowa Grocery Industry Association has named Todd Keech chairman of the board of directors. Keech, who is sectional division of sales, convenience channel for PepsiCo Warehouse sales, succeeds Tom Watson, EVP and chief retail officer for Hy-Vee, who serviced as chairman for six years.

“We are excited to have Todd Keech chair the IGIA Board in the coming year,” said IGIA President Michelle Hurd. “Todd brings a wealth of grocery industry knowledge and experience to IGIA’s board. I would also like to thank Tom Watson for his contribution to the success of our Association and his leadership during this past year as chairman of the board. It was a year of significant growth and initiatives.”

Keech has been on the IGIA board since 2009, formerly serving as treasurer, second VP and first vice chairman as well as serving on the IGIA scholarship golf committee, executive committee and Hall of Fame committee.

“It’s a privilege to be guiding the IGIA as the Board chairman," Keech said. "It is a strong and well-respected organization and I’m honored to carry on the work of my predecessor Tom Watson.”

IGIA also elected five new members to its board: Denny Dietrich, Gary’s Foods; Ryan Irsik, Wal-Mart Stores Inc.; Gary Munson, Kellogg Co.; Frank Schmitt, Associated Wholesale Grocers; and Chris Yurgae, Mueller Yurgae Associates.

The new board members “bring a variety of expertise and perspectives that will enrich the association and make us even stronger,” Hurd said.

The IGIA board consists of 22 directors made up of 10 retailers, three wholesalers, two members from the convenience store category and seven brokers and manufacturers.

IGIA, which was founded in 1899, represents chain and independent supermarkets, convenience stores, mass merchandisers, wholesalers, brokers, manufacturers and distributors.