Crown Bakeries’ Cordia Harrington named ABA board chair

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Crown Bakeries’ Cordia Harrington named ABA board chair

27 Mar 2022

Joanie Spencer

Since 2008, Joanie Spencer has covered the retail and wholesale sides of the baking industry.
Serving associations such as the American Society of Baking (ASB) and BEMA, Joanie is also in demand as an industry presenter on bakery operations and trends. She holds a bachelor’s degree in communication from Rockhurst University and a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Missouri.

When she’s not running or playing soccer, Joanie spends her time with her husband and 11-year-old son.

PALM SPRINGS, CA — The American Bakers Association (ABA) announced its new slate of officers during the all-membership meeting at ABA’s Annual Convention.

Cordia Harrington, founder and CEO of Nashville, TN-based Crown Bakeries was named 2022 – 2024 ABA board chair. Harrington, known affectionately in the industry as “the Bun Lady,” is a long-time ABA member who has dedicated her time, talent and resources to supporting the industry and ABA.

“I have had the privilege of serving on the executive committee for the past six years and to witness firsthand the dedication and thoughtful leadership that is required to serve in this role,” said Harrington, who accepted the nomination virtually via video conference. “As I step into the position, I am committed to continuing the work of my predecessors to promote the growth and success of the ABA membership and the commercial baking industry.”

Brad Alexander, COO of Thomasville, GA-based Flowers Foods, served as ABA board chair for the past two years and now transitions to the role of immediate past chair.

“As I step into the position, I am committed to continuing the work of my predecessors to promote the growth and success of the ABA membership and the commercial baking industry.” —Cordia Harrington | founder and CEO, Crown Bakeries | ABA board chair

Brad Alexander, COO of Thomasville, GA-based Flowers Foods, served as ABA board chair for the past two years and now transitions to the role of immediate past chair.

“Brad has done an excellent job leading ABA during the most challenging two years for our industry,” said Robb MacKie, ABA president and CEO. “I look forward to Cordia’s strong leadership as we continue to navigate this new business environment and serve the industry at the highest level.”

MacKie also recognize the commitment and leadership of the entire ABA board during the industry’s most challenging two-year period. “[The board’s] insight and guidance are critical, now more than ever.”

Harrington noted that challenges facing the industry today will likely continue over the next two years and called on membership engagements to contribute to the association’s and industry’s success.

“The next two years will be significant ones as we come together for IBIE 2022, continue navigating significant workforce and supply chain challenges, and strive to maintain a strong presence with our elected leaders as they develop policy impacting baking business,” said Harrington. “The active engagement of ABA members is critical to our success.”

The 2022-2024 Slate of Officers was approved by ABA membership:

Chair: Cordia Harrington, founder, Crown Bakeries

1st Vice Chair: William Quigg, president, Richmond Baking

2nd Vice Chair: Joe Turano, president, Turano Baking Co.

Treasurer: Brian LeComte, president and COO, Gold Medal Bakery

Immediate Past Chair: Bradley Alexander, COO, Flowers Foods

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