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.
In her new role, she will play a leading part in executing the group’s R&I strategy, which is focused on deepening its understanding of consumer and patient needs, advancing medical and nutritional science, and enhancing product development and sustainable growth.
Esser commented: “We are delighted to welcome an experienced, high-calibre profile like Carla’s to our team. Her rich international experience in research and development in the food sector will be an asset in deploying our ambitions to remain at the forefront of our market, as we enter the next chapter of our Renew strategy.”
Hilhorst joins Danone from Unilever, where she held the position of chief R&D officer of the Nutrition Business Group. In that role, she was responsible for building global R&I programmes.
Her appointment comes as Danone, under the leadership of CEO Antoine de Saint-Affrique, is placing a renewed emphasis on strengthening its research and innovation capabilities.
At the company’s last Capital Markets Event in June, Danone outlined its commitment to incorporating science at the core of its business model.
“This is a real opportunity to explore promising new avenues, in terms of categories and geographies, to meet the needs of consumers and patients,” said Hilhorst. “Danone is a unique company with a pioneering spirit, and I am thrilled to be joining as it works to transform its sector.”
Hilhorst will be based at Danone’s Global Research & Innovation Center in Utrecht, the Netherlands.
by Siân Yates
Source: foodbev.com
Barry Callebaut has named Natasha Chen president of its North American division, effective Sept. 16. She will succeed Ben De Schryver, who will leave Barry Callebaut to “pursue other opportunities,” the company said. In her new role, Chen will manage the company’s North American business in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Global snacking company Pladis has opened a new headquarters in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The site marks a milestone in Pladis’ strategic growth and expansion in the Middle East, North Africa and India (MENAI) region.
Located in the Zahran Business Center in Jeddah, the new office is equipped with new technology and was designed with a focus on sustainability.
Ferrero has announced the official European launch of a plant-based version of its iconic global hazelnut spread, Nutella. Beginning its roll-out with select European markets in autumn 2024, the new plant-based Nutella will soon be available to consumers in local supermarkets in a 350g jar.