WASHINGTON – Joseph Clayton has been named president and CEO of the International Food Information Council, effective July 11. He will succeed David B. Schmidt, who is stepping down after 23 years of leadership. Clayton also will serve as CEO of the IFIC Foundation.

Joseph Clayton, new president and CEO of the International Food Information Council

Clayton is currently the interim president of the American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI). He previously was executive vice president of public affairs at the AFFI. Prior to joining the AFFI, he held leadership roles with Golin International and Widmeyer Communications, where he was CEO.

“After a comprehensive global search, Joe impressed us with his exceptional organizational and strategic communications expertise, his passion for food and nutrition issues, and his strong leadership skills,” said Roger T. Lawrence, chairman of the board of directors for IFIC. “Joe brings keen insights into the intersections among research and stakeholder and consumer engagement, which are key to helping advance food conversations and consumers trust. He is a leader who can leverage the professionals who serve on the IFIC and IFIC Foundation staff, which will foster better public understanding of the food and nutrition issues that are increasingly central in our daily lives.”