Foodservice Packaging Institute appoints a new president

The Foodservice Packaging Institute (FPI), a trade association for restaurant packaging suppliers as well as their customers, has promoted Natha Dempsey to president, effective Nov. 1.

She will succeed Lynn Dyer, who is stepping down after more than 20 years to join a member, Pactiv.

Dempsey has been vice president since joining the FPI in 2010. Earlier, she held a variety of positions at what is now known as the Plastics Industry Association, which also dealt with packaging issues.

In announcing her promotion, the association noted that Dempsey has helped the packaging industry extend its recycling and composting efforts, while also being involved with communications, research and technical aspects of the business.

“She has a vast knowledge of foodservice packaging, especially in the areas of recycling and composting, and industry trends,” said John Ulowetz, FPI chairman and SVP of foodservice at member company Berry Global, in a statement. “We are very fortunate to have her step into this new role as she continues to advocate for and serve FPI members and the industry.”

"There’s still a lot for FPI to accomplish, and I look forward to engaging our members and other stakeholders on critical issues for our industry,” Dempsey said in the statement.