“Heather is a trusted strategist and results-oriented leader who knows IDFA, our members and the dairy industry deeply,” said Dykes. “She understands how to bring people together, move complex work forward and deliver results. I am excited to welcome Heather back to the IDFA team and look forward to the impact she will have as we continue delivering meaningful value to our members and advancing IDFA’s mission to make a difference for dairy.”

Soubra previously served as IDFA’s senior vice president of strategic initiatives and chief of staff, overseeing key organizational initiatives and the day-to-day operations of the Executive Office. During her tenure, she worked closely with IDFA colleagues, members and governance leaders to advance the association’s strategic priorities; led program development and execution for major initiatives, including IDFA’s Dairy Forum; and designed and implemented the IDFA People Strategy, a suite of programs focused on leadership, organizational well-being and building the workforce and organizations of the future.

“IDFA members are among the most innovative leaders in the food and beverage industry, and I am excited to return to an organization and industry that mean so much to me,” said Soubra. “I look forward to working with Michael, the IDFA team and leaders across the dairy industry to strengthen collaboration, support strategic priorities and build the relationships and programs that will move the industry forward.”

Most recently, Soubra served as director of the George Washington Leadership Institute at Mount Vernon, where she designed and facilitated leadership programming for leaders in government agencies, trade associations and other organizations. She is an International Coaching Federation Certified Coach and a member of the Forbes Coaches Council. She received her Professional Certified Coach credential through the International Coaching Federation and her Executive Certificate in Facilitation from Georgetown University.

A graduate of George Mason University, Soubra earned her degree in intercultural communication and received her certificate in coaching from George Mason University’s Institute for Leadership Excellence. Her direct experience as a senior association leader, strategist and executive coach informs her work helping leaders navigate complex organizations, build collaboration and cultivate workplaces where people thrive.