August 19, 2025

IFT Appoints Eric Ellis as Chief Financial Officer

The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) is proud to announce that Eric Ellis has assumed the role of Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

Press Releases

CHICAGO – August 19, 2025 – The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), a nonprofit scientific organization committed to advancing the science of food and its application across the global food system, is proud to announce that Eric Ellis has assumed the role of Chief Financial Officer (CFO). In his new role, Ellis will oversee all financial operations, including control, reporting, audit, analysis, and investment oversight, while also leading the facilities, information technology, and risk management teams.

Ellis has more than 20 years of progressive experience in financial management, strategic planning, and business leadership. For more than a decade, he served in a variety of roles with the National Restaurant Association, culminating with the last three years as its CFO where Ellis oversaw accounting operations, financial planning and analysis, financial reporting, and facility operations.

Ellis received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from Carthage College in Kenosha, Wisconsin, followed by a Master of Business Administration degree from the Lake Forest Graduate School of Management in Lake Forest, Illinois. He also serves as a member of the Board of Directors for the Association of Finance Professionals (AFP).

“Joining an organization like IFT presents an exciting opportunity to not only scale operations but also shape the future of a leading organization whose members are shaping the future of food,” said Ellis. “As CFO, I’m committed to making a meaningful difference by driving financial strategy that empowers innovation, supports our people, and delivers lasting value to our community.”

Ellis replaces Mark Barenie, who retired after more than 30 years with IFT. Barenie was recently recognized with IFT’s Distinguished Service Award in honor of Calvert L. Willey honoring a leader whose dedication has supported the growth and success of IFT while also reinforcing its positive and influential role in the global food system.

“We are thrilled to welcome Eric as our new Chief Financial Officer. With a proven track record of strategic leadership and financial stewardship, Eric brings the insight and integrity needed to guide IFT into the future,” said IFT CEO Christie Tarantino-Dean. “As our organization innovates to meet the changing needs of the food system community, Eric is poised to help scale our impact, strengthen our financial foundation, and uncover new potential across the business.”

To learn more about IFT, go to ift.org.

About Institute of Food Technologists

Since 1939, the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) has served as the voice of the global food science community. IFT advocates for science, technology, and research to address the world’s greatest food challenges, guiding our community of more than 200,000. IFT convenes professionals from around the world – from producers and product developers to innovators and researchers across food, nutrition, and public health – with a shared mission to help create a global food supply that is sustainable, safe, nutritious, and accessible to all. IFT provides its growing community spanning academia, industry, and government with the resources, connections, and opportunities necessary to stay ahead of a rapidly evolving food system as IFT helps feed the minds that feed the world. For more information, please visit ift.org.