Les Dames d’Escoffier International’s New Board Appointments – Plus New Board Member Announcements and More

New York, NY – November 19, 2024 – Les Dames d’Escoffier International (LDEI), an organization dedicated to promoting and supporting women leaders in the food, beverage, and hospitality industries, proudly announces the appointment of Stephanie Jaeger as President and Kate Howell as Third Vice President for the International Board of Directors. Jaeger’s vision includes a strong commitment to “togetherness” in the year ahead, underscoring the organization’s devotion to collaboration, connection, and advancing women’s roles in the industry. Additionally, the organization welcomes several new board members.

Stephanie Jaeger, a seasoned leader with over 35 years of experience in the restaurant sector, currently serves as a Learning and Development Specialist at JOEY Restaurant Group. Her work focuses on designing impactful training for front-of-house teams and fostering empowered and cohesive work environments. With a rich history as co-owner of PearTree, a fine dining restaurant, recognized among Canada’s Top 100 Restaurants, Stephanie’s passion for the industry extends beyond operations.

Her philanthropic dedication has earned her numerous accolades, including a place in British Columbia’s Restaurant Hall of Fame and Vancouver Magazine’s Premier Crew recognition. Known for her advocacy in mentorship and equality, Stephanie’s vision for LDEI this year is to create a stronger network of shared support and resources among members, celebrating the organization’s collective achievements and reinforcing the foundation of mentorship and inspiration that fuels LDEI’s mission.

“This year, I want to see Les Dames grow in strength through unity, empowering each other as we face the opportunities and challenges ahead,” said Jaeger. “Together, we can leverage our collective wisdom and experience to support the next generation of leaders, celebrating both tradition and innovation.”

Joining Stephanie Jaeger on the LDEI leadership team is Kate Howell as Third Vice President. Based in the UK, Howell brings over two decades of expertise in communications, community-building, and strategic development, notably from her 12-year tenure as Director of Communications and Engagement at London’s historic Borough Market. There, she led initiatives to build a globally recognized brand and spearheaded efforts in sustainability and community engagement. A member of LDEI’s London Chapter, Howell also serves on several boards, including The Mayor of London’s Markets’ Board and Better Bankside, contributing to strategic discussions shaping London’s food landscape.

“Les Dames has long represented the power of community, and I’m honored to contribute to an organization that champions collaboration and equality,” said Howell. “I look forward to working with Stephanie and the rest of the Board to foster meaningful connections that drive our collective goals and shared values.”

Additional new board member positions include Beth D’Addono (New Orleans Chapter) as Second Vice President and Sheila Crye (Washington D.C.) and Nancy Vinneau (Nashville) as Chapter Liaisons.

With their leadership, Les Dames d’Escoffier International continues to set a high standard for advancing women in the hospitality industry, drawing from decades of expertise, passion, and a renewed focus on togetherness. Stephanie Jaeger and Kate Howell’s appointments mark a pivotal year for LDEI, as the organization continues to champion collaboration, mentorship, and resilience among women worldwide. For more information about Les Dames d’Escoffier International, please visit https://ldei.org/.

About Les Dames d’Escoffier International

LDEI is an international organization of women leaders who create a supportive culture in their communities to achieve excellence in the fields of food, beverage, and hospitality. The organization’s 2,800 members in 42 chapters in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, France, and Italy provide leadership, educational opportunities, and philanthropy. Since its founding in 1985, LDEI chapters have raised and donated more than $10 million to educational, community non-profits, andphilanthropic organizations.

For more information, visit www.ldei.org and follow LDEI on Instagram @lesdamesintl and Facebook @LDEIdamesdescoffier.