Mark Crowell

Mark Crowell is the founder of CuliNex, established in 2005, with a strong background in food product development.

Before founding CuliNex, he spent 7 years as the director of food product development at Starbucks Coffee Company.

During his time at Starbucks, the company experienced significant growth under his leadership, expanding from 1600 to almost 10,000 units.

Mark led a team of food scientists and culinarians at Starbucks, driving the conception, creation, and commercialization of new food products.

Prior to his role at Starbucks, he was the director of menu and product development at the Olive Garden, overseeing culinary development for the chain's 475 units.

With experience owning and operating an award-winning restaurant in Washington D.C., Mark has a diverse background in the food industry.

He also led product development for the Host division of Marriott Corporation and operations teams for Service America and W.R. Grace Restaurants.

Mark's expertise lies in clean label food product development, offering services to brand owners and ingredient suppliers.

His strategic and product-centric approach to product development and quality ensures clients receive top-notch solutions utilized by leading brands.

He specializes in creating new and enhanced products as well as brand integrity services for food manufacturers.

Mark's educational background includes a Certificate Program from the AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF BAKING, an MBA from Columbia University - Columbia Business School, a B.S. from Florida International University, and an Associates of Occupational Studies from the Culinary Institute of America.

Currently, Mark serves as the CEO of CuliNex, LLC, a prominent player in the clean label food product development industry.