Sara Burnett

Sara Burnett

Executive Director

Sara Burnett is ReFED’s Executive Director, providing organizational leadership with direct oversight of ReFED’s programs, operations, and administration, and contributing to the organization’s strategic vision. Most recently, she served as Founder and Principal Consultant at Burnett Strategy and Communications, helping purpose-driven organizations grow their businesses while driving positive impact. Prior to this, Sara served as the VP of Food Beliefs, Sustainability, and Public Relations at Panera Bread and Panera Brands for 18 years, where she pioneered the company’s Clean Food Commitment and also led Panera Bread’s Day-End Dough-Nation program and the Panera Bread Foundation. Sara began her career as a food scientist and supply chain expert leading programs in ingredient quality, food safety, climate strategy, and animal welfare. She was a Pathfinder Environmental Fellow at Washington University, St. Louis, where she received her Bachelor of Arts in Biology and Psychology, and also holds an MBA from Webster University, St. Louis. Sara is the proud mother of two teenage daughters and has been happily married to a St. Louis firefighter for nearly 20 years. When she’s not on the sidelines at soccer games or attending school events, you can find her running, hiking, or reading.