A South Carolina native, Dell is currently executive VP of the National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA) and has been singled out following an exhaustive review of 67 qualified candidates.
During his 10-year tenure with NAMA, he built a best-in-class advocacy programme, forged new industry partnerships, revitalised the industry trade show and invigorated high-performing teams.
He is also a veteran of Capitol Hill, having served two stints as chief of staff and counsel to Representative Joe Wilson (R-SC), and as a practicing attorney and law clerk to South Carolina Circuit Judge Marc Westbrook.
He has a degree in Political Science and a Juris Doctorate from the University of South Carolina, along with a Master of Business Administration from the Johns Hopkins University.
Savvy leader
“ABA’s Search committee was unanimous in our selection of Eric,” said Cordia Harrington, ABA’s Board Chair, and founder and CEO of Crown Bakeries.
“He is an energetic, dynamic and politically savvy leader who exudes passion for his work and his family. He is the ideal successor to carry on the strong reputation and foundation built by Robb MacKie and the ABA team.”
Current president and CEO MacKie concurred, adding that under his direction, the ABA – which has been the voice of the industry since 1847 – will “blaze a bright path for the baking industry’s future.
“Both Eric and NAMA have been incredibly strong and well-respected collaborators with ABA and the Washington food community.
“In addition to his keen policy acumen in both federal and state governments, Eric’s strategic business ingenuity expanded his industry’s opportunities and grew their trade show’s impact.
