Mondelēz International Appoints Norberto Chaclin as Executive Vice President and Chief Research and Development Officer
Mondelēz International has made a significant move in its leadership by appointing Norberto Chaclin as the executive vice president and chief research and development officer. In this pivotal role, Chaclin will report directly to the company’s Chair and Chief Executive Officer, Dirk Van de Put. His primary responsibility will be to spearhead Mondelēz’s enterprise research and development (R&D) and quality strategy, a critical component of the company’s vision to shape the future of snacking.
Dirk Van de Put expressed confidence in Chaclin’s capabilities, stating, “Norb is a proven leader with a strong track record of innovation, a deep passion for meeting consumers’ evolving snacking needs, and a clear commitment to mentoring the next generation of R&D talent.” Van de Put emphasized that Chaclin will play a vital role in enhancing the collaboration between the global R&D organization and the company’s commercial businesses. This partnership aims to drive consumer-centricity, foster category growth, and accelerate productivity across the board.
Chaclin’s Previous Experience and Contributions
Before this new appointment, Chaclin served as the senior vice president of R&D for Mondelēz’s global biscuits segment, as well as acting as the regional R&D partner for North America. His tenure in this position marked a significant period for the company, during which he successfully led the rollout of various innovative products and renovations across several well-known biscuit and baked snack brands. These include iconic names such as Oreo, Chips Ahoy!, LU, Ritz, Club Social, belVita, and Clif Bar. Prior to focusing on biscuits, Chaclin directed R&D for Mondelēz’s global gum and candy business, showcasing his versatility and broad expertise in the snack food sector.
Chaclin’s extensive career in the food and beverage industry began long before joining Mondelēz International. He dedicated 18 years to PepsiCo, where he held various progressively responsible roles across multiple divisions, including Frito-Lay North America, PepsiCo International, Global Beverages, and Joint Ventures. His career culminated in leading R&D for PepsiCo North America Beverages and overseeing the Pepsi/Starbucks joint venture, further solidifying his deep knowledge and experience in the food and beverage market.
A Vision for the Future
In response to his new leadership role, Chaclin expressed his enthusiasm for leading Mondelēz’s R&D team. “I’m honored to assume leadership for the outstanding Mondelēz R&D team and look forward to advancing our technical capabilities, accelerating our competitive advantage, and most importantly, creating delicious new snacks for our consumers and customers,” he stated. His commitment to innovation and consumer satisfaction is evident as he steps into this important position.
Chaclin’s background is not only rooted in science and business but also enriched by a personal passion for culinary arts. He is an amateur chef hailing from Curaçao in the Netherlands Antilles, which adds a unique perspective to his approach in the food industry. This blend of technical expertise and culinary interest positions him well to lead Mondelēz’s R&D efforts, aiming to develop snacks that resonate with diverse consumer tastes and preferences.
Academic Credentials and Board Involvement
Chaclin holds a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Texas A&M University, complemented by a master’s degree in business administration from Southern Methodist University. His educational background equips him with a robust understanding of both the technical and business aspects of the food industry. Additionally, he actively contributes to the broader food and nutrition community by serving on the Board of Torr FoodTech and as a member of the Board of Trustees for the Institute of Food Technologists (IAFNS), which advances food and nutrition sciences.
Mondelēz International continues to solidify its position as a leader in the global snack market, as evidenced by its inclusion in the current Candy Industry “Global Top 100 Candy Companies” list. The company’s ongoing commitment to innovation, quality, and consumer satisfaction is reflected in its strategic appointments and the leadership of individuals like Norberto Chaclin.
As Mondelēz International embarks on this new chapter under Chaclin’s leadership, the company is poised to enhance its product offerings and strengthen its connection with consumers, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of the snacking industry.
Conclusion
With a seasoned expert like Chaclin at the helm of its R&D division, Mondelēz International is well-positioned to navigate the evolving landscape of consumer preferences and dietary trends. His proven track record of innovation and dedication to mentorship will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of the company and the broader snack food industry.
