Leslie Sarasin

CEO, FMI

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Leslie G. Sarasin is the President and CEO of FMI – The Food Industry Association. Under her leadership, FMI has become a member-centered organization, helping food retailing venues find innovative ways to feed families and enrich lives. Before joining FMI 16 years ago, Sarasin was the president and CEO of the American Frozen Food Institute. She holds a JD from the University of San Diego and a BA in economics from Smith College.

Sarasin is admitted to practice law in California and the District of Columbia. She serves on the Boards of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Partnership for a Healthier America, and the Congressional Hunger Center. She is also involved with the National Association of Manufacturers and the International Women’s Forum of Washington, D.C. and serves on the Business Advisory Council of Western Kentucky University’s Gordon Ford School of Business.

Sarasin has been recognized multiple times as a Progressive Grocer “Top Women in Grocery” and among Mass Market Retailer’s “Most Influential Women.” She received the Hospitality Good Scout Award in 2019 and was named “Association CEO of the Year” by CEO Update in 2021.

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Council Membership


Leslie is a member of The Coca‑Cola Retailing Research Council. This council’s research focuses on large stores with a mix of grocery and fresh items, such as supermarkets and supercenters.

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Industry Channels


View research for Large Stores

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