Former NEW CEO Joan Toth Honored at FMI Conference

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — The industry took time during the Food Marketing Institute's 2017 Midwinter Executive Conference to recognize Joan Toth, former leader of the Network of Executive Women (NEW).

Toth was elected treasurer of the organization in 2001, named executive director in 2002 and served in the new position of president and CEO from 2011 to the end of 2016. In her 15-year tenure, she helped grow NEW from a handful of members and partners into the retail and consumer packaged goods industry's largest leadership organization.

"As founding leader of NEW, Joan leaves a remarkable legacy," said NEW Board Chair Karen Stuckey, senior vice president for private brands and general merchandise, Walmart US, at Wal-Mart Stores Inc. "During her 15 years, Joan's passion galvanized a movement. She built a strong and growing organization representing 10,000 members, more than 100 corporate sponsors and 20 regional groups across North America."

Among other endeavors, Toth launched Go-To-Market Strategies, a retail consulting firm, and served as vice president and publisher of Convenience Store News.

She received a standing ovation at the 16th annual Friends of the Industry dinner at FMI's event on Jan. 28. In lieu of gifts or headliner entertainment for the banquet, the dinner allocates such funds to local charities and educational organizations designated by FMI members.