WAFC elects 2025–2026 Directors, Officers and Board of Directors

YORBA LINDA, Calif. — The Western Association of Food Chains (WAFC) has announced its newly elected Directors, Officers and Board of Directors for the 2025–2026 term following formal meetings held on May 4 and 6, 2025. This year’s announcement includes the addition of five dynamic new directors whose collective experience, dedication, and vision will help shape the future of food retail leadership across the Western United States.

“We are thrilled and incredibly honored to have this group of extraordinary industry leaders join the WAFC Board of Directors,” said Kevin Lovell, WAFC President Chairman and SVP of Operations, Albertsons/Safeway – NorCal. “They have shown tremendous dedication to the success of our industry and are proven servant leaders who will be instrumental in helping the WAFC achieve continued success.”

Newly Elected Directors for 2025–2026:

Hilda Doushgounian, Regional Vice President Operations – SoCal, Sprouts Farmers Market
With over two decades of experience in operations and retail, Hilda has held leadership roles at top-tier organizations such as Target and Amazon. Starting her career at Target as a Food Manager straight out of high school, she steadily progressed through general management and multi-site leadership. At Sprouts, she has quickly risen to a senior role, consistently demonstrating a commitment to operational excellence and team development.
Kendra Doyel, President, Food4Less/FoodsCo
Kendra began her career with the Kroger enterprise in 1998 as a pharmacist and has since taken on numerous leadership roles at Fry’s, Fred Meyer, Ralphs, and Food 4 Less. Deeply engaged in civic leadership, Kendra has served on boards for the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce, Discovery Science Center, THINK Together, and chaired the California Grocers Association. Recognized as a “Top Women in Grocery Rising Star” by Progressive Grocer, she is known for supporting workforce development through partnerships with organizations like Homeboy Industries.
Moises Gonzalez, Vice President of Store Operations, Northgate Gonzalez Market
Moises brings a strong blend of operational expertise and community involvement. He serves on the boards of both Northgate Gonzalez Markets and Pretend City Children’s Museum. A graduate of Pepperdine University and USC’s Food Industry Management Program, he is active in local faith-based organizations and is known for fostering values-driven leadership.
Tim Ryan, National Category Director, Albertsons Companies
A 35-year veteran of Albertsons, Tim has held a wide range of roles and is a passionate advocate for continuing education in the grocery industry. He has been instrumental in developing the Retail Management Certificate Program and has led multiple successful WAFC Illuminator Rallies, raising funds for scholarships and leadership training.
Fidel Banuelos, Director of Store Operations, Food4Less/FoodsCo
Fidel joined Food4Less in 1993 and has held a variety of store operations roles, currently overseeing divisions in California and Illinois. A graduate of the USC Food Industry Executive Program, Fidel is known for his people-first leadership style, his support of community initiatives, and his passion for mentoring future leaders.

2025–2026 WAFC Officers and Board of Directors

Treasurer: Wendy Coldesina, Vice President, General Merchandise Manager, Costco Wholesale – Garden Grove, CA

WAFC’s board represents a comprehensive mix of leaders from across the food retail and supply chain spectrum:

Board Members Include:
John Alston (Brookshire Brothers), Adam Caldecott (Bristol Farms / Lazy Acres / New Leaf Markets), Mike Callihan (Food4Less/FoodsCo), Chris Cowgill (Albertsons Companies), Jake Fermanian (Super King Markets), Rich Gillmore (Gelson's Markets), Dustin Hamilton (Sprouts), Mike Hendry (Northgate Gonzalez), Sean Heryet (Albertsons – Intermountain), David Hinderaker (C&S Wholesale Grocers), David Hinojosa (Vallarta Supermarkets), Todd Kammeyer (Fred Meyer), Chris Lanoue (Albertsons – NorCal), Steve Mayer (Bashas'), Kelly Mullin (Albertsons – Portland), Tom Nelson (Albertsons/Tom Thumb/Randalls), Matt Reeve (Smart & Final), Mike Ridenour (UNFI), Cliff Rigsbee (Rosauers Supermarkets), Ron Selders (UNFI), Nathan Tucker (WinCo Foods), Jim Wallace (Albertsons/Vons/Pavilions), Rick Williams (Gelson’s Markets), Levi Wingo (Raley's Companies)