Sharon Olson and Tami Cline
Sharon has over 25 years of foodservice sales and marketing experience. She is a veteran of the food industry and has always enjoyed the challenge of starting up new ventures that address the unique needs of companies in the food business.
Sharon is president of Olson Communications, a marketing communications company she founded in 1988. Prior to forming her own business, she was Vice President at two major food agencies, Norton Associates and Arian & Lowe Advertising. She began her career in foodservice sales with The Carnation Company and joined American Dairy Association when the association was first establishing their foodservice division.
During her career she has helped companies with strong global brand recognition like Nestle and Quaker Oats establish positions in the U.S. foodservice marketplace as well as regional food companies like Hatfield Quality Meats build their business and their reputation within Colleges and Universities. She worked with the National Dairy Council in developing their healthy school environment initiatives and the New Look of School Milk.
Sharon holds a B.A. in Marketing Communications from Western Illinois University, magna cum laude, an M.B.A. with distinction from the Keller Graduate School of Management and a Certificate of Advanced Studies in Direct Marketing from DePaul University.
Sharon has co-chaired the International Foodservice Manufacturers Association (IFMA) Sales & Marketing Conference Committee, served on the IFMA Education and Chain Operator’s Exchange (COEX) planning committees as well as the International Association of Culinary Professionals (IACP) conference planning committee. She chairs the Gold & Silver Plate Society celebration committee. Sharon is a member of the Executive Committee of Les Dames d’Escoffier and has served as President of the Restaurant Women's Club of Chicago. She has served on the advisory board for the Hotel and Restaurant Program at Ashland University. Sharon is a 1993 recipient of the IFMA Sparkplug Award and holds a Level I CFSP certification from the North American Association of Food Equipment Manufacturers.
Sharon has an unquenchable zest for adventure and a passion for international cuisines. She travels frequently exploring food and culture. She writes an award winning marketing column in Deli Business magazine, and is frequently quoted in trade and business publications on the foodservice industry and consumer trends.