New Hospitality Leader Award Named for CalChamber Board Member

A company dedicated to elevating the future of foodservice and hospitality has named its new leadership award for longtime CalChamber Board member Ted Balestreri, chairman and CEO of Cannery Row Company.

The Ted Balestreri Leadership Accelerator Award will be presented by the Prosper Forum each year to recognize individuals who exemplify its mission to elevate leadership talent and foster a more inclusive future for the foodservice and hospitality industry.

In announcing its creation of the award, the Prosper Forum hailed Balestreri as “a tireless advocate for education, leadership, and investing in future generations. His commitment to innovation and championing inclusion has left an indelible mark on the foodservice and hospitality sector.”

Balestreri has served for more than four decades on the National Restaurant Association Board, including a term as president, and is a longstanding member of the World Travel and Tourism Council. He has been a member of the CalChamber Board of Directors since October 2003.

“It’s truly an honor to be a part of this wonderful recognition,” said Balestreri. “Leadership is not about individual achievement, but about empowering others to grow, innovate, and leave the industry better for future generations.”

The first recipient of the Ted Balestreri Leadership Accelerator Award is James Fripp, chief equity, inclusion and belonging officer for YUM! Brands, Inc.