Leslie Sarasin is the president and chief executive officer of FMI – The Food Industry Association. FMI advocates for the food industry and the issues that support its members' mission of feeding and enriching society. The association’s work reaches more than 100 million U.S. households and represents an $800 billion industry with nearly 6 million employees.
Under her leadership, FMI has become a member-centered organization, helping food retailing venues find innovative ways to feed families and enrich lives. A committed collaborator, Sarasin has infused FMI with a vision of cooperative action, enhancing the association’s ability to assist its members in addressing critical industry issues.
Before joining FMI nearly 15 years ago, Sarasin spent 19 years at the American Frozen Food Institute, serving as president and CEO for the last nine years. She also held positions at the National Food Brokers Association, Crest International Corporation and Salomon Brothers. Sarasin holds a J.D. from the University of San Diego and a B.A. in economics from Smith College.
Sarasin is admitted to practice law in California and the District of Columbia. Her professional, social and personal commitments are reflected through service on the boards of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Partnership for a Healthier America and the Congressional Hunger Center, as well as the CMA Board of Advisors at the National Association of Manufacturers. Additional leadership roles include membership on the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Committee of 100 and active participation in the International Women’s Forum of Washington, D.C., where she recently served a two-year term as president.
Sarasin has been recognized multiple times among Supermarket News’ Power 50, Progressive Grocer’s Top Women in Grocery and Mass Market Retailer’s Most Influential Women. She was awarded the Hospitality Good Scout Award by the Boy Scouts of America in 2019. In 2021, she was named Association CEO of the Year by CEO Update.