Jean Spence, an independent consultant who recently served as executive vice-president of research, development and quality at Mondelez International, has been appointed an independent director on TreeHouse Foods, Inc.’s board of directors. Ms. Spence’s appointment brings the total number of board members to 10.
“We are pleased to welcome Jean, as she will bring fresh insights and new perspectives, as well as demonstrated and relevant experience to the TreeHouse Foods board,” said Gary D. Smith, chairman of the board. “We are confident that her contributions will be valuable as the company continues to transform its business through the TreeHouse 2020 restructuring program and to refine its strategy to deliver long-term shareholder value.”
Prior to the 2012 spin-off transaction to form Mondelez, Ms. Spence was senior vice-president of worldwide quality, scientific affairs and compliance at Kraft Foods Inc., where she was responsible for improving quality and food safety on a worldwide basis, coordinating global compliance programs, scientific relations, regulatory relations, microbiology, and auditing. Before joining Kraft, she was a process supervisor for Procter and Gamble.
She has represented the food industry on the Department of Homeland Security Advisory Council and Kraft on the International Life Sciences Institute and Junior Achievement of Chicago boards. Ms. Spence serves on the supervisory board of GEA Group AG and is chair of the Clarkson University Board of Trustees.
Ms. Spence received a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Clarkson University and a master’s degree in chemical engineering from Manhattan College.
By Eric Schroeder
Source: Food Business News
Danone has appointed Carla Hilhorst to the newly created position of senior vice president of research and innovation categories and zones, as the company looks to make science the heart of its business. Hilhorst, who brings over 30 years of experience in research and innovation, will report directly to Isabelle Esser, Danone’s chief research, innovation, quality and food safety officer.
The move, part of Pernod Ricard’s strategy to enhance its premiumisation efforts, will allow the company to focus more resources on its portfolio of premium international spirits and champagne brands that drive the growth of its business. This decision aligns with the company’s commitment to delivering sustainable value for shareholders, employees, clients and partners.
Schai – who is the current CEO of Swiss chocolate company Lindt & Sprüngli’s Australian operation – has previously worked with Aryzta from 2015-2018, where he served in roles including managing director for Asia Pacific and global strategic business lead (McDonald’s). The fast-food giant McDonald’s is one of Aryzta’s significant clients.
