bake - May/June 2024 - 6

management
RBA Names
Executive Director
Marissa Sertich Velie is poised and well prepared for the challenge.
As
the new executive director for The Retail Bakers of America,
Velie steps into this role following more than five years as the
organization's education and certification director.
She begins her new position immediately and promises to use
her inside knowledge of both RBA and the baking industry to
expand on the momentum already evident.
" I am overjoyed. I am a baker at heart and by training, and I
have profound respect for our members, " Velie says. " Our retail
bakery members are dynamic, hard-working, resourceful entrepreneurs
and it is my primary goal to provide them with a robust
community where they can learn and grow. When bakers come
together, it is a very powerful thing. "
Scott Calvert, RBA board president, points out that Velie's
most recent role as the RBA's certification and education director
proves how she is instrumental in creating programs and
partnerships that have taken the association's pillar of education
to the next level.
" Having an extensive background in education and the food
industry, Marissa brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise
to our organization, " Calvert says. " As we continue to navigate
through the dynamic landscape of the baking industry, Marissa's
strategic vision and leadership skills will be valuable in driving
the RBA's mission forward. Her passion for promoting excellence
in baking education, fostering innovative partnerships, and advocating
for the interests of our members aligns perfectly with
the values of the RBA. "
Velie demonstrated her passion and insights for the future of
the retail bakery business during the recent Camp Bread event
in Providence, Rhode Island.
Bakery owners and aspiring home bakers were invited to find
out if a bakery storefront is right for their business, explore various
business models and begin to learn how to build a successful
retail bakery location in the session from the Retail Bakers of
America.
" Bakers are the pillars of our communities, " Velie told a packed
crowd at the Camp Bread session. " As we work together, the
stronger we become. "
06 < MAY-JUN 2024 | bakemag.com
She advised aspiring and existing bakery owners to plan, plan,
and plan some more as they move forward.
" Your mission statement is your statement of purpose, " Veile
emphasizes. " It needs to be specific enough to energize strategic
planning and general enough to allow customization. The
specialty retailer is a growing segment. "
Establishing goals, both quantifiable and measurable, is a vital
step to achieving success as a retailer.
Conduct market analysis for your location, and make sure you
pinpoint a specific menu and style of service.
" It is important to do your own assessment, " Velie points out,
adding that the RBA is a vital resource.
Calvert and the entire board agree that Velie will positively
impact the baking industry and help to achieve new heights of
success in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
The RBA has a long history of supporting and promoting the
retail baking industry, and the organization continues to be committed
to this mission.
As a trade association, RBA plays an important role in connecting
buyers and sellers within the industry and is dedicated
to helping baking businesses succeed.
By providing support, resources, and networking opportunities,
RBA helps bakers stay up to date on the latest trends and
developments in the industry and ultimately helps them thrive in
a competitive marketplace.
RBA
http://www.bakemag.com
bake - May/June 2024

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