Institute of Food Technologists Welcomes New Editor-in-Chief

CHICAGO – Oct. 12, 2020 – The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) announced today the hiring of Bill McDowell as the new Editor-in-Chief of the institute’s flagship Food Technology Magazine. IFT is a primary news source for a global and diverse community, and in his role, McDowell will direct the editorial creation of digital and print news sources with a special emphasis on digital transformation and content creation relevant to IFT’s audiences.

“Food Technology Magazine must cut through the noise and provide laser-focused editorial content for a profession and industry changing faster than ever before,” said Christie Tarantino-Dean, CEO of IFT.  “Bill brings editorial leadership, a record of innovation and a sense of urgency that our readers will see and feel.”

For the last nineteen years, McDowell worked for MTG Media Group, most recently as Vice President, Editorial Director. During his time with MTG, Bill was a key player in the expansion and diversification of company publications, covering various aspects of the food industry. Bill oversaw the transition of Meat Marketing & Technology and Poultry into a single print/web brand, Meatingplace, in 2006. Prior to working at MTG Media, McDowell held various positions across editorial, including as the editorial director of the Food, Beverage, and Retail Group with VerticalNet and editor at Cahners Business Information.

“I am proud to be joining such a talented and respected team of professionals,” McDowell said. “The challenges of food sustainability, safety, nutrition and accessibility that are the core of IFT’s mission have never been more pressing. I am excited to explore new opportunities to inform and engage IFT’s diverse members as they continue to innovate the global food supply.”

McDowell holds a Bachelor of Science in Journalism and Master of Science in Journalism from Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, Media and Integrated Marketing Communications.