Carly has spent more than 18 years working in large multinational FMCG brands, with a proven track record of brand strategy and innovation in global and local market roles. Carly has worked at Nomad Foods since 2012 and before that, she worked for global snacking company Mondelez. Before becoming Chief RDQ Officer, Carly’s previous roles at Nomad Foods included Marketing Director for Findus Italy, Group Fish Category Director and most recently, Portfolio Director.

Fiercely ambitious, Kelly is the driving force behind the F!S-Group. F!S-Group is a family of three businesses specialising in F&B consumer led innovation, human insight and growth acceleration. Food Innovation Solutions, Good Sense Research and Cambridge Market Research, come together to provide a suite of complimentary services in food and beverage innovation, strategic support and consumer research.

Mark, CEO of Nature Force Technologies AG, with experience in Israel and internationally. Nature Force Technologies AG - specialize in R&D and global sales of beverages that target wellness market. In recent years we witness a global shift towards healthier lifestyle, that affects everyday food and beverage choices. Wellness is top priority. Mark takes active role to develop and commercialize beverages for better hydration and indulgence without compromising well-being.

Niina Wredfors is a candy product development professional blending sensory expertise with a profound love for crafting confectionery. She serves as the Director of Product Development for Fazer Confectionery’s Candy BU, and manages development of the jelly candies, liquorice, pastilles, and marmalades. As collaboration with the product development team, Niina Wredfors focuses on developing new products and refining the existing range, giving special attention to plant-based and sustainable options while maintaining the highest standards of quality and meeting consumer preferences. Furthermore, Niina Wredfors has established the Sensory Evaluation and Consumer Insight team, which plays a crucial role in validating novelty ideas, conducting consumer studies and carrying out sensory profiling for Fazer Confectionery products. In her leisure, Niina enjoys biking, knitting and long walks with her dog Biscuit.

• 20+ years in R&D, Innovation and Business Transformation in Food & Beverages and Health industries (today at FERRERO, Nestlé 14 years, Innovation Consultant 4 years).

• International Science & Technology background & network, translated into global Science & Technology platforms for across categories & across markets business growth (R.I.S.E. - Sweden, ETH-Zurich, Nestlé R&D)

• 15+ years of direct and transversal Management of international & multi-competence team (University, Corporate, Independent)

Valentina Gallani is a nutritionist and food technologist currently working as Health and Nutrition Manager at ProVeg International. She specialises in the nutritional properties and product development of plant-based alternatives. Valentina holds a Bachelor’s degree in Food Science and Technology and a Master’s degree in Human Nutrition with a focus on plant-based diets. After working with private companies, start-ups, and individual patients, she joined ProVeg to continue reshaping the food system, to create nutritious, delicious foods that benefit both people and the planet.

Born in Pasto, an Andes-town in the south of Colombia on May 5, 1976, Willem Fijten has had quite the journey in his professional life. Currently, he's the Innovation Director and Commercial Board member at AVIKO, one of the biggest potato product manufacturers in the world. In this role, he is, together with a team of product developers, product managers and sensory specialists, shaping innovation strategies and overseeing the creation and launch of new products. Before this, he spent time at NOMAD FOODS EUROPE as the European Senior Development Manager. Leading a team across Europe, Willem worked on an innovative plan that combined technical know-how, business sense, and consumer’s needs. Iglo, Birds Eye and La Cocinera are examples of the portfolio of Brands Willem was responsible for. Then came his time at MARS FOOD GLOBAL, where he worked as a Product Innovation and R&D Global Culinary Expert. Here, he was in charge of development projects on a global scale, making sure new products were not only developed well but also fit into the overall product lineup. Ben’s Rice & sauces, Dolmio, Seeds of Change amongst other brands were part of his portfolio of responsibilities.