FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Chicagoland Food & Beverage Network Names Mariam Parker Executive Director Following Retirement of Founder Alan Reed

CHICAGO – January 21, 2026 – The Chicagoland Food & Beverage Network (CFBN) and its charitable arm, Bigger Table, today announced the appointment of Mariam Parker as Executive Director. Parker succeeds founding Executive Director Alan Reed, who is retiring after nearly a decade of leadership.

Reed has led CFBN since its launch in 2017, growing the organization from a startup nonprofit into a regional network connecting hundreds of food and beverage companies across Chicagoland. During his tenure, CFBN launched Bigger Table, a 501(c)(3) that applies industry expertise and supply chains to address food insecurity through innovative product development and distribution. Reed will continue to be recognized for establishing a culture of collaboration that brought together competitors, partners, and community organizations in service of a stronger regional food ecosystem.

“Mariam brings the strategic leadership and collaborative mindset needed to guide CFBN into its next phase,” said Janet Garetto, Board Chair of the Chicagoland Food & Beverage Network. “She understands how to strengthen industry relationships while ensuring our work continues to deliver measurable value to both members and the broader community.”

Parker joins CFBN with deep experience in nonprofit leadership and food-system collaboration. Parker previously served as the inaugural Executive Director of the Texas Food & Wine Alliance, where she built partnerships among chefs, producers, and industry experts while overseeing community grant programs focused on impact and innovation.

“Bigger Table was created to turn the capabilities of Chicago’s food industry into real, nutritious solutions for families facing food insecurity,” said Andy Dratt, Board Chair of Bigger Table. “Mariam’s experience positions us to scale that work and extend our reach to even more in our community.”

“I am honored to lead CFBN and Bigger Table at this important moment,” said Parker. “Chicago is the heart of the nation’s food industry, and I look forward to working with our members to drive innovation, strengthen community connections, and expand the impact of Bigger Table.”

About Chicagoland Food & Beverage Network
The Chicagoland Food & Beverage Network is a association that brings together the region’s food and beverage industry to drive innovation, collaboration, and economic growth.

About Bigger Table
Bigger Table is the charitable arm of CFBN, aligning industry expertise and resources to develop high-quality, nutritious food solutions for communities in need.

Media Contact:
Erin Davis
Digital Media and Communications Manager 

Chicagoland Food & Beverage Network
Erin@chicagolandfood.org
312-880-9107