Kip Palmer is a native of Rochester, NY, and received his BA from Wittenberg University. Following college, he joined his father in building Rochester-based Palmer Food Services and Syracuse-based G&C Food Distributors.

As a 5th generation CEO of Palmer Foods and the Palmer Family of Companies, Kip Palmer is recognized in the greater Rochester and Syracuse business community as a leader and mentor in the industry. Under his leadership, these companies thrive and are recognized as frontrunners in independent foodservice, production, and redistribution. Kip's leadership has both continued the legacy of his family and created a sustainable business for the communities in which they serve.

Kip's innovative spirit and continual drive to serve his associates and community is apparent in his partnerships with local businesses and organizations. He contributes his time and resources to a variety of charitable and business organizations. He loves to see those around him succeed and has been a vocal advocate and active supporter of young entrepreneurs and community organizations. In 2023, Kip received an honorary Doctor of Commercial Science degree from Roberts Wesleyan University.

Kip is married to Amy, has five children and four grandchildren.