COLUMBIA, MD. — David Van Laar has been named president of the Biscuit & Cracker Manufacturers Association. Mr. Van Laar succeeds Stacey Sharpless, who was with the B&CMA for 17 years.

Mr. Van Laar comes to the B&CMA with an industry background that includes positions with Pepperidge Farm, Martino’s Bakery, President Baking Co., Keebler and Oak State Products, where he most recently was vice-chairman of the board of directors. In his career, he has held positions in sales, operations, general management and chief executive officer on both the branded and contract manufacturing sides of the business. The association expects this experience will allow Mr. Van Laar to serve the needs of member companies more completely.

Mr. Van Laar also previously has served as chair of the Sustainability Work Group for B&CMA where he received an award from the Environmental Protection Agency for his pioneering work in bakery Energy Star certification.  Most recently, he was chairman of the board of the B&CMA.

“I have used the training available through B&CMA all my career,” Mr. Van Laar said. “I have seen the benefits of well-trained employees and the cost savings they deliver. The B&CMA courses deliver more than most bakeries can develop in house. Education is core to the success of B&CMA, and we will continue to expand our programs while working with members to implement in their facilities.”