Megan Levin

Q. Can you tell us a bit about your upbringing and how it has shaped you?

I was raised by amazingly supportive parents, who repeatedly told my siblings and me that “you can do anything you put your mind to.” They taught us through example the value and satisfaction gained from working hard and putting others first. Mom and Dad invested in our education, gave us the confidence to aim high, and instilled in us the faith that God will take what we have to offer and create something wonderful.

Q. What were some of the pivotal moments that led you to where you are today?

I’m showing my age here, but I began working for the Refrigerated Foods Association (RFA) when I answered a help-wanted ad in the printed newspaper! I was just out of college and anxious to make my mark on the world. I started with RFA as communications director, a position I held for about 10 years.

During that time, I married my college sweetheart, and after our second child was born, I took a few years off to focus on being a mom. Later, the board invited me to return part time as membership director. Life then took an unexpected turn, and in 2014, I became executive director for the RFA.

Q. How has your career evolved over the years?

I’ve learned so much over the years, and have met some of my favorite people in this world through this job. When I started with RFA, a different generation of leaders was running the organization. Today, because RFA is heavily composed of family businesses, the children of those leaders are now running the association. I feel like I grew up alongside the current leaders, which brings a unique level of respect, confidence and camaraderie.

It has been an incredible joy and privilege to see RFA grow and evolve into the leading organization for refrigerated foods manufacturers and suppliers. The relationships fostered through this unique group, along with the strong technical, regulatory and industry support provided for members, have established the RFA as an essential tool for success in the refrigerated foods industry, and for that I am so proud and grateful.

Q. What is the best advice you ever received and why?

When I took over as executive director for RFA and started my own association management business, I was going through one of the most challenging periods of my life. Family crises, uncertainty, and chaos on all sides made me question my ability to serve the association the way it deserved.

My dear friend and mentor, Wendie DiMatteo Holsinger of ASK Foods, inspired and encouraged me during that time. She reminded me that life isn’t always fair, but what truly matters is how we respond to the curveballs it throws our way. Her words gave me the courage and confidence to move forward despite the challenges and insecurities I was facing. And that decision is one of the best ones I have ever made.

Q. What deli retail trends have impacted the industry most over the last year?

It’s been fun to see so many international foods and flavors making their way into the deli. Asian and Mediterranean influences, in particular, are becoming increasingly popular as consumers seek bold flavors and new culinary experiences.

RFA members stay ahead of these trends with the help of expert presentations and newsletters focused specifically on changes and advances in the deli sector.

Q. What hobbies do you enjoy outside of work?

Now that my kids are grown and flown, I’m finally getting back into hobbies! I’m a bit of a gym rat and love reading anything I can get my hands on. Travel is really important to me, seeing the world and learning from other cultures and experiences. I am also involved in several ministries at my church, from cooking meals for parishioners to leading the Stephen Ministry and serving as a Stephen Minister.

And I take an adult tap-dancing class! We might laugh and share more stories than we actually dance, but it brings such a smile to my face and extra pep to my step.