IDDBA names new VP of education, industry relations

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IDDBA names new VP of education, industry relations

16 Mar 2026

Maddie Lambert

Maddie Lambert is a copywriter and editor from Joplin, MO. She graduated from Missouri Southern State University with a Bachelor of Arts in English – literary studies. When she’s not poring over the magazine or lost in the pages of a new novel, you can find Maddie exploring her local bookstores, spending time with her husband, or sharing her latest literary discoveries with fellow book enthusiasts.

MADISON, WI — The International Dairy Deli Bakery Association (IDDBA) announced that Abby Despins has joined the organization as VP of education and industry relations. She will officially begin her role on March 30.

In this position, Despins will lead the development and expansion of IDDBA’s education programs and strengthen connections across the dairy, deli and bakery sectors. She will work closely with members to identify emerging trends, create meaningful learning opportunities and help industry professionals stay ahead in a rapidly evolving marketplace.

Despins brings nearly 20 years of experience in the food industry to the role, with a career spanning several IDDBA member companies. She most recently served in the marketing and communications department at Emmi Roth, leading strategy, consumer marketing, events and industry communications for one of the nation’s premier specialty cheese producers.

Throughout her career, Despins has worked with retailers, manufacturers and industry partners to build brands, strengthen connections and advance the dairy industry. Prior to Emmi Roth, she held roles at Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin and Schreiber Foods.

“I’ve seen firsthand the value this community creates for our industry. I’m excited to … support our members and strengthen the future of the dairy, deli and bakery industries.” — Abby Despins | VP of education and industry relations | IDDBA

“I’m honored to join IDDBA and serve an industry that has been such an important part of my career,” Despins said. “I’ve seen firsthand the value this community creates for our industry. I’m excited to help develop education and connections that support our members and strengthen the future of the dairy, deli and bakery industries.”

Having spent her career working within IDDBA member companies, Despins brings a strong understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing the industry today. She also offers firsthand experience of IDDBA’s signature event, as she attended the annual show multiple times as an exhibitor.

“In many ways, Abby has spent her career inside the IDDBA family,” said Chris Schwass, acting CEO of IDDBA. “She understands the challenges and opportunities our members face because she has been part of building the businesses that power our industry.”

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