Diane Chandler, Executive Vice President, Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc.
"The IFDA Community has been critical not only in my personal and professional growth, but to that of many of us at Martin Bros. Distributing. Engagement with IFDA is definitely a contributing factor to our overall success."
Martin Bros. Distributing Co. is a broadline distributor that operates a single distribution center from their headquarters in Cedar Falls, IA. The company’s distribution area includes Iowa and seven states surrounding it.
Diane Chandler is executive vice president of Martin Bros. As part of the company’s senior leadership team, she participates in the annual IFDA Partners Executive Forum, which includes three days of top-to-top meetings between distributors and foodservice manufacturers to identify joint opportunities for growth.
“IFDA Partners has been a benefit to Martin Bros. in many ways. It has given us increased visibility in the industry and the forum provides a unique opportunity to share our culture and differentiate go to market strategies in a collaborative setting,” says Chandler. “It has also given us the platform to discuss industry issues face to face with trading partners, understand multiple perspectives, and to help shape potential solutions to keep our mutual businesses moving forward.”
In addition to building stronger relationships with trading partners, Chandler says Martin Bros. capitalizes on IFDA networking opportunities to engage leaders in both the distributor and manufacturer communities. “That has allowed us to further our relationships, develop and strengthen partnerships, and collaborate for future success,” says Chandler.
Prior to her current role, Chandler was director of marketing and merchandising at the company. Her participation with IFDA stretches back to 1998. Chandler believes that personal and professional growth occur most when you have the opportunity to engage in activities outside of day-to-day business and is thankful for the culture at Martin Bros. that embraces outside engagement.
“I have been extremely fortunate that Martin Bros. understands the benefit of exposing and involving our team in the IFDA community,” said Chandler. “IFDA has been instrumental in providing opportunities for our personal and professional growth and continues to innovate by introducing new programs like the Executive Development Program and new committees like Women’s Foodservice Leadership group.” Chandler said her company encourages their team to participate, allowing key employees to devote time and resources for the benefit of the greater industry.
“Regardless of what we give in time and resources as very active participants, all of us at Martin Bros. understand we get even more in return,” said Chandler. “The IFDA Community has been critical not only in my personal and professional growth, but to that of many of us at Martin Bros. Distributing. Engagement with IFDA is definitely a contributing factor to our overall success.”