Brad Keen, an Ossineke native, has assumed the position of chairman of the Michigan Restaurant Association Executive Board for a second straight term. Over the past 30 years, he has worked as part of the Boyne Resorts team to strive to transform its Northern Michigan properties into food destinations focused on hospitality.

His career – influenced by his experiences in the kitchen as an Alpena High School student – began with an internship at Boyne Highlands in 1989 following graduation from the Culinary Institute of America in New York. Harnessing his passion for lifelong learning and food service, Keen now holds the title of senior vice president of food and beverage for Boyne Resorts.

Boyne Resorts, which includes a trio of year-round Northern Michigan resorts (Boyne Highlands, Boyne Mountain and Inn at Bay Harbor), now spans the continent and employees more than 7,000. Over the course of his career, Keen has been integral in transforming food from a necessity for hungry skiers to an experience delivered with exceptional service and a smile.

Keen’s position with Boyne Resorts means plenty of travel to all of the company’s properties, not just those in Northern Michigan. Several of the resorts, which also include Cypress Mountain near Vancouver, British Columbia, and Sugarloaf and Sunday River resorts in Maine, boast more than 10 restaurants ranging from mountainside cafeterias and cafes to elegant dining rooms.

As MRA Executive Board chairman for a second term, Keen is prepared to work on behalf of his peers for the betterment of the industry in his home state.

“Growing and further strengthening the MRA is something I truly look forward to tackling and I’m committed to dedicating my time to the betterment of the food service and hospital industry over the next year,” Keen said.