STOP Foodborne Illness seeks new CEO

Stop Foodborne Illness (STOP), a national nonprofit dedicated to preventing illness and death from foodborne pathogens, is seeking a new CEO. This leadership transition comes as current CEO Mitzi Baum prepares to step down by the end of the year. Baum has served as the organization’s leader since 2019, and the search for her successor is already underway.

STOP’s mission is focused on protecting consumers, advocating for stronger food safety policies, and supporting those affected by foodborne illness. The new CEO will have the opportunity to build on the organization’s recent growth, further shaping its national impact. The board of directors is looking for a candidate with a strong commitment to STOP’s mission and experience in leading an organization with a consumer-centered approach.

The incoming CEO will be responsible for overseeing the organization’s diverse initiatives, including collaborations with public health organizations, food companies, academic partners, and government agencies. The position also offers the chance to work closely with survivors of foodborne illnesses and their families, ensuring their voices are represented in advocacy efforts.

STOP has long been at the forefront of advocating for food safety reform. The organization works to raise awareness about foodborne pathogens, pushing for policy changes to prevent illnesses caused by dangerous bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella. STOP also collaborates with industry and regulatory agencies to drive meaningful improvements in food safety practices.

Mitzi Baum, who has led STOP for five years, played a crucial role in strengthening the organization’s visibility and influence. Under her leadership, STOP established alliances with major food companies and spearheaded a coalition to modernize food safety standards for poultry. Baum’s advocacy efforts helped bring attention to Cronobacter sakazakii, a deadly pathogen found in infant formula, which was added to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) reportable disease list.

The incoming CEO will inherit a well-established organization with a strong network of partnerships, a dedicated team and a clear mission. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to lead STOP as it continues to advocate for better food safety practices and policies nationwide.

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their resumes and cover letters to jobs@stopfoodborneillness.org or apply via this link. All inquiries will be kept confidential.

STOP has made a significant impact on public health over the years, and the board of directors is confident that the new CEO will continue to build on this legacy of advocacy and leadership in the food safety space.

For more information about the job opening or to learn more about Stop Foodborne Illness, visit their website.

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