WILD Launches New Global Research & Innovation Group

26 Jun 2014 --- WILD Flavors (WILD) has created a Global Research and Innovation Group (R&I), headquartered in Zug, Switzerland.

This will be a cross-functional, cross-regional team comprised of highly technical, and experienced research personnel and trained chemists, focusing on delivering a continual pipeline of robust, innovative concepts to the food and beverage markets.

Through very coordinated, standardized, and amplified flavor, color, ingredient and scientific research with increased emphasis on global efficiencies, WILD will now be able to provide its customers with the best offerings, unique technologies, and creative solutions on a worldwide basis.

Michael Ponder, Global CEO of WILD Flavors GmbH stated, “By bringing together the regional strengths and expertise of WILD into a Global team, WILD will be able to expand our capabilities, capacities, creativity, and expertise in many areas, including: in-depth flavor and color research and development, plant science, health ingredient technologies, fermentation, analytical analysis, biotechnology, and natural mint varieties and custom variations, and sweetening solutions.”

Dr Erik T Donhowe will lead the Global R&I Team as Chief Global Research and Innovation Officer. Dr Donhowe has been with the WILD organization since April, 2004 – Vice President of the North American Beverage Business Unit, and as North American Chief Operating Officer since 2010. “Donhowe has the expertise, technical background, and management experience to expand the creativity of the research areas of WILD while allowing the efforts and abilities of each individual to thrive,” stated Mr Ponder.

“WILD has multiple technologies, innovations, knowledge, and expertise worldwide. By creating a focused team to drive innovation, I feel that it can only increase the offerings and solutions for our customers to meet their requirements on a timely basis – ahead of the market,” stated Donhowe. “I am very excited to have the opportunity to lead a global team that can focus specifically on R&I platforms and responsibilities as it supports our WILD Legacy of Winners-Innovators-Leaders-Developers.