BRONX, NY. — Food distribution company, Baldor Specialty Foods announced David McInerney as its new president.

McInerney, who previously worked as chief executive officer and co-founder of FreshDirect, brings more than 30 years of experience in food retailing, operations, and supply chain to his role at Baldor.

TJ Murphy, owner and CEO of Baldor, plans to collaborate to achieve common goals with McInerney.

“Dave and I have known each other for years, and I couldn’t be happier for him to join Baldor,” Murphy said. “We both love great food, and we have a shared view of what quality means in sourcing and service. Our strengths complement each other — while I love long-term innovation, his passion and expertise is bridging the present with the next several years and ensuring executional excellence. I’ll continue looking 10 years ahead, and Dave will start from today; we’ll meet in the middle.”

McInerney emphasized the similarities in his work with FreshDirect and how it will tie into his new position.  

“There are so many parallels between Baldor’s business and my background — the emphasis on tight relationships with growers, the focus on serving discerning customers, and the care for doing right by both sides. This feels like such a natural fit,” McInerney said. “I am honored to join this team and look forward to building on its legacy, harnessing the power of great people and good food.”

When co-founding FreshDirect  in 2000, he was one of the first players in the online grocery industry, where he helped find customer retention and operational efficiencies.

While at the company, he also traveled the world as a “Chief Food Adventurer” to source high-quality ingredients and establish relations with top producers.   

Baldor noted McInerney’s expertise in food sourcing and supply chain management would be instrumental in the future of its distribution capabilities and product offerings.