The Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association (PFMA) has named Ryan Middleton of PepsiCo and Michael Cotherman of McLane Company to its Board of Directors, adding two executives with deep experience in public affairs, distribution, and retail industry partnerships.
Middleton, government affairs senior manager for PepsiCo’s Northeast U.S. region, succeeds Deriece Harrington on the PFMA board. He brings more than a decade of experience in public policy, government affairs and community leadership at the federal, state and local levels. In his current role, Middleton works with governments across the Northeast on policy issues, sustainability initiatives, and corporate responsibility efforts.
“Ryan brings a strong public policy background, a practical understanding of government relations and a thoughtful approach to solving complex issues,” PFMA President and CEO Alex Baloga said. “His experience will be a valuable asset to PFMA as we continue advocating for Pennsylvania’s food and beverage industry and supporting the businesses that serve communities across the Commonwealth.”
Before joining PepsiCo, Middleton held several public service roles in Maryland, including serving as director of CountyStat for Prince George’s County. He is a graduate of Cornell University and Michigan State University College of Law.
PFMA also announced the return of Michael Cotherman, senior national account manager with McLane Company, to its board. Cotherman succeeds Charles Irons and previously served as a PFMA board member.
Cotherman brings 28 years of experience in convenience-store distribution and customer account management. In his current role, he oversees one of the nation’s largest convenience-store accounts, supporting strategic growth initiatives and operational execution between McLane and its retail partners.
“Michael has a deep understanding of convenience stores and the supply chains that support retailers across Pennsylvania,” Baloga said. “We are excited to welcome him back to the PFMA Board of Directors.”
A lifelong Pennsylvanian, Cotherman is known for his work building retailer partnerships and helping convenience operators navigate an increasingly complex operating environment.
PFMA said both appointments will strengthen the association’s efforts to represent and support food retailers, wholesalers, distributors and suppliers across Pennsylvania.