Retail diversity organization The Network of Executive Women launched a new regional group in Southern California, its 15th regional group and second in the state.

"When you consider the size of the market and the number of grocery industry-related companies that operate in this region, it makes perfect sense for NEW to start a chapter in Southern California," said Sue Klug, a NEW advocate and president of Albertsons, Southern California Division. "We are looking forward to developing long-standing partnerships with many companies in this region as they join us in our efforts to promote the advancement of women through dynamic programs of education, leadership and business development." 

In addition to Klug, several other key women in the food industry will champion NEW efforts in Southern California, including Caroline Nakken, president and c.e.o. of Mass Connections; Kay Garbizo, v.p. of advertising and marketing for Ralphs; Caryn Olson, division v.p. for Nestlé; and Mickie Sharp Villaneuva, v.p., warehouse, for Hansen Beverage Company.

The Southern California group's inaugural after-work event, to be held March 11 at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum in Yorba Linda, will feature key supermarket and packaged goods industry leaders, including executives from Albertsons, Safeway, ConAgra, and General Mills.

Executives interested in NEW's Southern California regional group should contact Kelley Rittel at Mass Connections, (562) 365-0200, ext. 1090, email krittel@massconnections.com.

The Network of Executive Women, Consumer Products and Retail Industry supports diversity and the advancement of women in the consumer packaged goods, retail, and supermarket industries through events, networking, and diversity best practices and education. It has nearly 2,000 members from more than 400 companies, 53 corporate sponsors, and 15 regions nationwide.

In other news, NEW's New York Metro branch will host Lynette Lewis, author of Climbing the Ladder in Stilettos, who will address the group's networking event February 5 at the Sheraton Meadowlands in East Rutherford, N.J.