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Stacey Walton
Technical Project Manager
Professional Background
Stacey Walton is a seasoned professional with a robust background in food chemistry and sensory science. With extensive experience in the food and beverage industry, she has held pivotal roles at leading corporations, demonstrating her expertise in ingredient technology and product development. Stacey's career has spanned various significant positions in renowned companies such as PepsiCo, Dr Pepper Snapple Group, and Tate & Lyle, where she has developed innovative solutions and led projects that have made a substantial impact in the sector.
Stacey’s journey began in the vibrant academic community at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where she not only completed her undergraduate studies but also went on to attain a Master of Science in Food Chemistry and a Ph.D. in Food Chemistry and Sensory Science. Her strong academic foundation laid the groundwork for her successful career in the food and beverage industry, equipping her with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in a rapidly evolving market.
In her most recent role as a Technical Project Manager at PepsiCo, Stacey has demonstrated exceptional leadership and project management capabilities. Here, she has been involved in complex projects that require deep technical knowledge and innovative problem-solving skills. Her ability to coordinate teams, manage resources, and drive projects to completion has made her an invaluable asset to her organization.
Prior to her tenure at PepsiCo, Stacey honed her expertise as the Manager of Ingredient Technology at Dr Pepper Snapple Group. In this role, she was responsible for overseeing ingredient selection and application within product development, ensuring that high standards of quality and consumer satisfaction were met. Her strategic insights into ingredient functionality have played a crucial role in the development of new products that cater to evolving consumer preferences and trends.
Stacey's impressive career also includes significant positions as Manager of Ingredient Science at Keurig Dr Pepper Inc., where she focused on optimizing ingredient utilization and flavor profiles in various beverage lines. Additionally, her role as a Senior Scientist in Sweeteners at Dr Pepper Snapple Group allowed her to delve into innovative sweetening techniques that enhanced product quality and consumer appeal.
Moreover, Stacey's experience as a Senior Research Scientist at Tate & Lyle has provided her with a deep understanding of food science and formulation, equipping her to contribute valuable insights to product development teams. Her passion for scientific inquiry and commitment to excellence have led her to mentor emerging scientists and contribute to the educational landscape as a Teaching Assistant at the University of Illinois.
Education and Achievements
Stacey Walton’s educational journey is as impressive as her professional one. She embarked on her academic path at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Human Nutrition. Her curiosity for the complexities of food systems propelled her toward further studies, leading to a Master of Science in Food Chemistry. Stacey’s commitment to academic excellence culminated in a Ph.D. in Food Chemistry and Sensory Science, where she conducted extensive research that has contributed valuable knowledge to the field.
Throughout her education, Stacey displayed a strong dedication to advancing her understanding of food science, which has directly translated into her professional accomplishments. Her academic background not only solidified her technical expertise but also enhanced her ability to apply scientific principles innovatively in real-world scenarios.
In addition to her substantial career accomplishments and academic success, Stacey has consistently engaged with professional organizations and industry conferences, sharing her insights and contributions to the field of food research and development. Her work has been recognized through various awards, reflecting her dedication to pushing the boundaries in food chemistry and product innovation.
Achievements
Some of Stacey’s noteworthy achievements include leading successful product development projects that resulted in innovative beverages now enjoyed by consumers worldwide. Her work at PepsiCo has been instrumental in creating sustainable product lines that align with consumer demand for healthier options and transparency in ingredient sourcing. This focus on health-conscious products marks a significant trend in the food and beverage industry, positioning Stacey as a forward-thinking leader.
Additionally, Stacey has made significant contributions to ingredient technology, optimizing formulations to improve taste, stability, and nutritional profiles. Her adept understanding of sensory science enhances product acceptance and consumer satisfaction, making her a sought-after expert in the field.
Stacey has also played a vital role in mentoring future leaders in the food science industry, imparting her knowledge and passion to the next generation of food scientists. Her commitment to education and her ability to inspire young professionals showcases her as a leader not just in her own right but as a nurturer of talent within the food and beverage sector.
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