Convenience Distribution Association Gets Its First Female Chair

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — The Convenience Distribution Association (CDA) announced on Sept. 13 during its annual Convenience Distribution Business Exchange (CDBX) that Susie Douglas Munson, chief operating officer of Conway, Ark.-based Douglas Cos., will serve as its 2017 chair. She is the first woman to hold the position in the organization's history.

Munson follows in the footsteps of her late father, Bob W. Douglas, who led the association in 2001 when it was known as the American Wholesale Marketers Association. She will take over the role of chair in January 2017.

"For many years, Susie has volunteered her time, talents and energy to CDA committees and initiatives," said 2016 Chair Chad Owen, vice president of business affairs at Chambers & Owen. "I have no doubt that as chair, Susie will not only support, but strengthen the many valuable services provided by CDA to our membership."

Munson expressed her thanks to the nomination committee and her faith in the assembled CDA membership during her onstage remarks at the show after receiving her green jacket that symbolizes the position of CDA chair.

"We're only as strong as our members, and I have no doubt they'll rise to the occasion as they always have," she said.

Founded in 1973 by Munson's father, Douglas Cos. is a regional supplier that services a six-state area of Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas, Texas, Oklahoma and Louisiana. Munson jointly owns and operates the business with her brother, Steve Douglas, president and CEO of Douglas Companies.

Munson's focus for Douglas Cos. is overseeing the purchasing department, human resources, credit department and special projects such as their annual trade show and travel incentive programs. She is also politically active, advocating for the industry and small business issues on state and federal levels.

Previously, Munson served as president of the Arkansas Wholesale Marketer's Association, was a member of the WAM Advisory Board and for more than seven years, she has been a member of the CDA board of directors, where she served as chairman of the Government Affairs Committee before joining the Executive Committee.

CDA President and CEO Kimberly Bolin stated that she looked forward to working with Munson in her new role as chair.

"Susie Munson is a special individual, an extremely smart and capable industry executive who brings a rare combination of practical knowledge and forward-thinking vision," she said. "Under her leadership, CDA will continue on its path of advancement and success."

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