Monique Llamas Buckler

Director of Programming at Naturally NorCal

Monique Llamas has dedicated her career to supporting and growing natural and specialty food companies. Her experience working for distributors like UNFI and Falcon Trading Company, early-stage CPG brands such as 479 Degrees Popcorn, importers like Manicaretti Italian Food, and founding her own eCommerce business, Hardcover Cook, has given her insight and deep empathy for the challenges small businesses face. At Naturally NorCal, she manages programs and events to provide education and help foster connections so every industry professional has the tools and community to help them prosper.

Jill McLewis

Executive Director at Naturally NorCal

Jill is a seasoned executive leader with a strong track record in organizational growth, strategic development, and operational excellence. With extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, governance, and business development, she specializes in guiding organizations through transformation, fostering strategic partnerships, and driving financial sustainability.

With expertise in unifying leadership teams, she has successfully led organizational mergers, expanded membership bases, and developed impactful education and networking programs. She has overseen financial operations, CRM system development, and marketing strategies that have resulted in significant growth and engagement.

In addition to executive leadership roles, she has extensive experience in public service, overseeing policy development, city management, and multimillion-dollar budgets. Through strategic planning and collaboration, she has played a key role in legislative initiatives, economic development, and contract negotiations.

With a Master’s of Information Systems Management & MBA concentration, as well as PMP and Scrum Master certifications, she brings a unique blend of strategic vision, financial expertise, and operational leadership. Passionate about fostering innovation and community impact, she continues to drive meaningful change across sectors..