NRA Taps Keri Stockland as CFO to Navigate Industry Modernization

WASHINGTON, DC – January 20, 2026 – The National Restaurant Association has appointed seasoned financial executive Keri Stockland as its new Chief Financial Officer, a strategic move signaling a reinforced focus on navigating the complex economic landscape confronting the restaurant industry. Stockland will oversee the financial strategy for both the Association and its Educational Foundation, stepping into the role at what leadership calls a "pivotal moment" for the sector.

Michelle Korsmo, President & CEO of the National Restaurant Association, emphasized the strategic importance of the appointment. "Keri Stockland brings exceptional financial and strategic leadership to the National Restaurant Association at a pivotal moment for our industry and our Association," Korsmo stated. "Keri's disciplined approach to modernization and financial agility further strengthens our leadership team and positions the Association and Foundation to execute with clarity and confidence."

A Strategic Architect for a Challenging Era

Stockland arrives with over 25 years of extensive experience across both corporate and non-profit sectors, bringing a track record that aligns directly with the Association's stated goals of modernization and growth. Her career is marked by expertise in driving financial transformation, process optimization, and M&A integration—skills critically needed in an industry undergoing rapid evolution.

Most recently, as CFO of the non-profit DKT International, she was instrumental in initiatives that helped double the organization's revenue to over $300 million. Her background also includes a significant tenure as a Director at KPMG Advisory, where she guided over 60 clients through the complexities of IPO readiness and post-acquisition finance integration. This experience, spanning industries from healthcare to technology, has given her a broad perspective on building scalable systems and implementing efficient financial frameworks, which will be vital for the Association.

Korsmo's emphasis on "financial agility" points to the need for a leader who can do more than balance the books. Stockland's background suggests she is a financial architect capable of redesigning systems to be more responsive and resilient, a crucial asset for an association representing over a million restaurant and foodservice outlets.

Navigating an Industry at a Crossroads

The term "pivotal moment" is no exaggeration. The U.S. restaurant industry is currently navigating a confluence of economic pressures that are squeezing already thin profit margins. Recent industry data paints a stark picture: an estimated 76% of operators are grappling with rising ingredient costs, while 62% have been forced to raise menu prices to cope with increasing wages. A persistent labor shortage remains a primary concern for 54% of operators, with the full-service sector still operating with 228,000 fewer jobs than before the pandemic.

This environment of high costs and workforce instability is compounded by economic uncertainty that tempers consumer spending. With many diners becoming more value-conscious, some experts have warned that a significant percentage of restaurants may be operating at a loss. In this climate, the financial stewardship of the industry's leading advocacy group becomes more critical than ever. Stockland's role will involve guiding the Association's financial strategy to ensure it can effectively support its members through advocacy, education, and the provision of data-driven resources.

Technology and Data as the New Frontier

Amidst these challenges, a clear path forward is emerging through the strategic adoption of technology. Artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are transitioning from novel concepts to essential tools for survival and growth. Restaurants are increasingly leveraging AI to automate customer service, optimize inventory through predictive analytics, and create more efficient staff schedules. Advanced point-of-sale (POS) systems are providing real-time data that allows for smarter, faster decision-making.

This technological shift requires significant capital investment and a new way of thinking about operational efficiency. Stockland’s expertise in "finance transformation" and "process optimization" positions her to help the Association lead this charge. A key part of her mandate will likely involve ensuring the Association’s financial health is robust enough to invest in and promote these modern tools and strategies, helping members move from a reactive to a proactive operational stance. Her leadership will be essential in helping the industry harness data and technology to not only weather the current storm but also build a more profitable and sustainable future.

A Dual Mandate of Corporate Acumen and Non-Profit Mission

Stepping into the CFO role at the National Restaurant Association requires a unique blend of sharp corporate financial skills and a deep understanding of a mission-driven, member-focused organization. Unlike a for-profit entity focused on shareholder value, the Association's success is measured by its ability to support and advance its diverse membership. Stockland's experience as CFO of DKT International demonstrates her ability to apply high-level financial strategy within a non-profit context.

Her responsibilities extend to the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF), which runs critical workforce development programs like ProStart for high school students. The financial health of the Foundation is directly tied to the future of the industry's talent pipeline. Stockland will be tasked with ensuring the financial sustainability of these programs, which are vital for addressing the long-term labor challenges facing the sector.

Accepting the position, Stockland acknowledged the service-oriented nature of the role. "I am humbled by the confidence that Michelle and the Association's leadership and Board have placed in me," she said. "It is a privilege to serve this community and the Association's members, and I look forward to supporting restaurant industry professionals nationwide with the financial stewardship and strategic partnership that empowers their future success."