Rich Dachman Speaker Biography
CEO of Brighter Bites and Former Sysco VP of Produce
Rich Dachman is widely recognized as the best Sysco Supply Chain speaker in the foodservice industry today. With nearly three decades at Sysco, the world’s leading foodservice distributor, Rich has cultivated a deep understanding of global produce logistics and supply chain strategy. Now CEO of Brighter Bites, a nonprofit committed to improving access to fresh produce, he bridges the gap between corporate efficiency and community health. His insights resonate across sectors, offering a rare mix of executive acumen and social impact perspective. Drawing on his Sysco leadership, Rich helps audiences navigate supply chain disruptions, sustainability challenges, and innovation in food distribution. Although his work is rooted in produce, his lessons apply to any business balancing scale with purpose. For companies and conferences seeking a compelling, knowledgeable voice in logistics and distribution, Rich consistently stands out as the best Sysco Supply Chain speaker available today.
Foodservice
A Colorado native, Rich began his produce journey the old-fashioned way—by working in the family business. After graduating from Colorado State University, he partnered with his father to launch a foodservice operation for Kraft Foods in Denver. This venture gave him firsthand experience in local distribution and team building. After its success, Rich relocated to Kraft’s headquarters in Chicago, taking on the role of National Director of Produce in 1987. This pivotal position expanded his exposure to national produce operations and strategic sourcing. While many executives follow traditional corporate routes, Rich’s early path taught him resilience and creativity. Each stage of his career added to a foundation built not just on knowledge, but on earned trust and operational grit. As supply chains have evolved, Rich’s layered experience has made him an essential resource for understanding both the history and the future of food logistics.
Sysco Speaker
In 1992, Rich joined FreshPoint Inc., where he quickly rose through leadership roles across Houston, Denver, Atlanta, and Salinas. When Sysco acquired FreshPoint in 2000, he transitioned to Senior Vice President of its Western Region, overseeing expansive territory and operations. In 2007, he became Vice President of Produce for Sysco Corporation—an influential role where he helped define strategy for one of the largest supply chains in the world. While many speakers talk about supply chain theory, Rich offers lived experience. His leadership helped Sysco meet the demands of a shifting marketplace while maintaining supplier integrity and customer satisfaction. For audiences in logistics, foodservice, procurement, or sustainability, Rich brings an unparalleled depth of insight. Because of this, his reputation continues to grow as the best Sysco Supply Chain speaker for executives, analysts, and food industry professionals seeking real-world expertise.
Awards
Rich’s leadership has earned recognition from the most respected organizations in the produce and foodservice sectors. He received The Packer’s Foodservice Achievement Award, highlighting his impact on foodservice innovation. The Center for Growing Talent honored him with the Jay Pack Cultivating Our Future Award, acknowledging his mentorship and vision. Additionally, he earned the Excellence Award from Produce for Better Health, underscoring his commitment to healthier food systems. In 2012, he was named Chairman of the Produce Marketing Association, where he shaped policy and practice on a global scale. However, Rich remains grounded, consistently emphasizing collaboration over personal accolades. His awards reflect not only individual accomplishment, but also his ability to lift entire industries through innovation and service. For any organization seeking to understand distribution networks, procurement best practices, or supply chain resilience, Rich’s voice remains essential—especially for those navigating today’s increasingly complex food economy.
Rich Dachman Speaking Topics
Brighter Bites, Non Profit Produce Distribution with an Amazing Supply Chain & Story!
A discussion with Rich Dachman about Brighter Bites which is changing the lives of children & families in the USA. Rich has over 40yrs of experience in Supply Chain Produce from the world's largest distributor Sysco to helping smaller farmers aid the mission of Brighter Bites.
Foodservice, Nutrition and Making a Difference
Dachman’s presentation covers topics such as the complex matrix of foodservice distribution, the success of a distributor-operator relationship and the ways the produce industry can make a positive impact.
Leadership through Connecting & Lifting Others
Rich Dachman’s leadership story is about “Connections”. It comes from his own story of starting from the bottom & building to the top of his industry. As a teenager, Rich was rebellious & got himself into some legal trouble It was the attorney that represented him & helped me out of it and became my mentor. He dropped out of college temporarily in his Sophomore year and started his own business. Through many trials and tribulations, he climbed the ladder to the top position in the produce foodservice industry as VP at Sysco Systems earning a 7 figure income for multiple years. On his way up, he was the National Director for Produce Foodservice for Kraft General Foods, and went on to be President of 4 different companies for Sysco. The key to his story of success is that along the way there were axis points in time where one person, with minimal interaction, had a massive impact on his ultimate future. He has done the same in his long career and is passionate about mentoring young people on his teams, many of which have gone on to have amazing success. He encourages others leaders to understand the impact they can have on others. His presentation is heartfelt & inspirational.
