Shawn Townsend, President & CEO

Shawn Townsend is the President and CEO of the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington (RAMW), leading the premier advocacy and business resource organization for the region’s restaurant industry. With a deep commitment to supporting operators, chefs, and hospitality professionals, Shawn works to advance policies and initiatives that foster growth, sustainability, and innovation within the industry.

Before joining RAMW, Shawn served as the Director of the Mayor’s Office of Nightlife and Culture for Washington, D.C., where he played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between local businesses, government agencies, and community stakeholders. His leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic was instrumental in developing relief programs and reopening strategies for the city’s hospitality sector.

Shawn’s career is rooted in public service and business advocacy, with extensive experience in government affairs, regulatory compliance, and economic development. He has been recognized for his strategic leadership, coalition-building skills, and ability to navigate complex policy landscapes to support businesses and drive regional economic impact.

As RAMW’s leader, Shawn is focused on ensuring the restaurant industry remains a vibrant and essential part of the D.C. metropolitan area, advocating for policies that promote workforce development, operational sustainability, and equitable business practices.

When he’s not championing the restaurant industry, Shawn enjoys exploring the region’s diverse culinary scene and spending time with his family.