Les Dames d'Escoffier International (LDEI) has elected Suzanne J. Brown president. LDEI is a philanthropic society of professional women leaders in the fields of food, beverage and hospitality.

Brown works as a global coffee and tea marketing specialist for The Partnership Inc., an interactive advertising and design firm based in Atlanta. In her new position with LDEI, Brown and her board of directors are charged with fostering the continued growth and success of LDEI by supporting the 26 chapters across North America and developing new chapters.

"In my profession working with coffee- and tea-growing countries, I’ve experienced the significance food has on its community. Food, its traditions and enjoyment weave into the very social fabric of these countries,” Brown said in a statement.

LDEI members are educators, cookbook authors, chefs, winery owners, food scientists--influencers who shape the way consumers think, purchase, prepare and eat food. For more information, visit www.ldei.org.