Webcasts cover timely topics
Stay current, hone your skills, and boost your career by attending one or all of IFT’s Webcasts.
The IFT Knowledge & Learning Center is offering four Webcasts in July. The topics are “Biotechnology: What Food Companies Need to Know” (July 19, 8:30–10 a.m. CDT); “Making Sense of Sustainability: What Consumers Really Think” (July 19, 10:30 a.m.–noon CDT); “Communicating the Contributions of Processed Foods and Addressing Public Perceptions” (July 20, 8:30–10 a.m. CDT), and “Emerging Health Benefits of Coffee: Recent Advances in Epidemiologic and Experimental Knowledge” (July 20, 10:30 a.m.–noon CDT).
For more information, visit www.ift.org or call the Knowledge & Learning Center at 312-782-8424.
Starbucks names Wagner senior VP
Mary Wagner has joined Starbucks Coffee Co. in the newly created role of Senior Vice President, Global Research and Development.
In the role, Wagner is leading research and development and quality assurance efforts and is helping to expand Starbuck’ pipeline of innovation with a focus on locally relevant products in key markets outside of the United States.
Wagner has more than 20 years of experience in research, development, and quality assurance with retail and consumer product companies. Prior to joining Starbucks, she was General Manager/Chief Technology Officer for Mars Botanical (part of Mars Inc.). Additionally, she held senior-level roles with E.&J. Gallo Winery, Taco Bell, and Gorton’s.
Wagner earned a B.S. degree in bacteriology and an M.S. degree in food technology from Iowa State University and a Ph.D. degree in food science and nutrition from the University of Minnesota.
She served as President of IFT (1997–98) and is a Professional Member of IFT.
Marble new COO for Wisdom Natural
Charles Marble has joined Wisdom Natural Brands as Chief Operating Officer. He is responsible for driving all operational aspects for the company, including revenue growth, customer and vendor engagement, product roadmap, and corporate development.
During his 25-year career in the food industry, Marble has held positions in sales and marketing, plant operations, and executive management. Most recently, he was Executive Vice President North America of Barbara’s Bakery, a division of Weetabix Cereals UK. He earned a B.S. degree in food science from Cornell University and an MBA degree from Lake Forest Graduate School of Management. He is a Member of IFT.
IFPTI appoints Wojtala Executive Director
The International Food Protection Training Institute (IFPTI) has named Gerald Wojtala Executive Director. He had served as the organization’s Acting Executive Director since Dec. 1, 2009. He will continue to serve as a member of the board of directors.
Wojtala joined IFPTI after working for 26 years with the state of Michigan, where he most recently served as Deputy Director of the Food Dairy Division with the Michigan Dept. of Agriculture. He is also Past President of the Association of Food and Drug Officials.
Wojtala is a Member of IFT.
Section & Division meetings
Western New York
Aug. 4: Golf outing. Location: Ravenwood Golf Club, Victor, N.Y. Contact Dawn Fisher at 585-396-8065 or [email protected].
Visit www.ift.org to view the Events Calendar, including listings for Section and Division meetings, and for information on how to list your event.