Association Structure

Adapted from Appendix 1 ("Organizational Structure Summary") of the ARDA Bylaws. The Association's structure runs from the General Assembly down to individual departments; a visual chart appears below.

1. Governance

General Assembly (all members) → Board of Directors (highest decision-making body) → Executive Council (implements Board resolutions, coordinates daily affairs) and Supervisory Board (Chair; oversees implementation, finances and compliance).

2. Secretariat, Office and Departments

Secretariat (Secretary General, Deputy Secretary/Secretaries General) handles daily administration; Office (Office Director) provides general administration, document management and event support, overseeing Finance & Fund, International Affairs & Strategic Partnership, Branding & Public Relations, and Legal. A Partnership Development Officer develops and maintains international partnerships.

3. Six Standing Committees

Branding & Franchise, Supply Chain, Technology & AI, Capital & Investment, Legal & Policy, and Next-Generation Restaurateurs & Entrepreneurship.

4. Advisory Committee

Chief Advisor, Distinguished Advisors, Honorary Advisors; plus an Honorary President. Advisors do not participate in governance or daily management and hold no vote.

5. Local Chapters and Alliances

Chapters in New York, California, Texas, Florida, New Jersey, Illinois, Washington State, Boston, Las Vegas, Hawaii, and overseas partners. Industry alliances are formed or joined by the Association, have no independent legal status, and follow operating rules set separately by the Board.

See Chapters 3–11 of the "Bylaws" page for the full text.