ASB announces Robert A. Fisher Award recipient
The awardee's career began in 1978 with Thomas' English Muffins.
The American Society of Baking (ASB) has announced John Phillips as the 2026 recipient of the Robert A. Fisher Award, recognizing his exceptional leadership, sustained service, and transformative contributions to the commercial baking industry, the org says.
With a career spanning more than four decades, Phillips has reportedly left an indelible mark on baking operations, workforce development, and professional leadership. His career began in 1978 with Thomas’ English Muffins before transitioning to a distinguished 26-year tenure at Schwebel Baking Company, where he oversaw operations across three facilities. His people-centered approach and operational discipline shaped teams, processes, and rising leaders across the organization.
Phillips’ commitment to ASB has been equally impactful, the organization says. A member since 1989, he served as ASB board chair in 1998, helping steer the society through key periods of growth and modernization. Phillips is credited with the organizational name change that occurred during his time as chair. Under his leadership, the organization moved from the American Society of Bakery Engineers to its current name, signaling a recognition of the advancements and expansion of the baking industry. He also served as interim chair of the Baking Hall of Fame Selection Committee in 2024-2025, contributing strategic insight, organizational clarity, and thoughtful guidance to the nomination and selection processes.
For decades, Phillips has also contributed meaningfully to ASB tradition by leading the invocation during BakingTECH’s opening sessions, grounding the industry’s most significant annual gathering in reflection and gratitude.
“John Phillips represents everything we hope to see in ASB volunteers: dedication, humility, professionalism, and a genuine desire to support others," says Matt Bowers, ASB board chair. "His contributions—both visible and behind the scenes—have strengthened our Society and inspired our members. ASB is better because of John, and it is a privilege to honor him with the Robert A. Fisher Award.”
The Robert A. Fisher Award honors individuals whose sustained contributions have significantly advanced the Society and the baking profession. Phillips’ service to ASB, coupled with his influential leadership most recently at Lesaffre and earlier industry roles, stands as a definitive reflection of the Award’s mission, the org notes.
Phillips received the award during BakingTECH 2026, ASB's annual technical conference.
Related: ASB names Rising Bakery Award recipient at BakingTECH
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